An experienced ophthalmic technician, Donnie Rhett Koonce is a member of Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, PA, where he works with patients in areas such as retinal imaging, visual acuity testing, and glaucoma screening. Donnie Rhett Koonce is also tasked with data analysis and research assistance in topics such as syphilitic retinopathy and hydroxychloroquine retinopathy. Presentations on this research were made at American Academy of Ophthalmology conferences in 2018 and 2019.

Mr. Koonce was active with a number of organizations throughout his time in college, including the National Society of Black Engineers and the Minority Association of Premedical Students. Pursuing a biomedical science MS at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, he focused his research efforts on the prevalence of diabetes among minorities in specific areas. He also volunteered with a local health clinic in providing residents of low income with free glaucoma screenings.

Mr. Koonce is a culinary enthusiast who enjoys developing new recipes in his free time, and plays the drums and piano when he has the chance. He regularly mentors minority males in the community, and also has experience volunteering at local elementary schools.