An ophthalmic assistant with Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates of North Carolina, Donnie Rhett Koonce is responsible for data analysis, audits of surgeries, and website management. Donnie Rhett Koonce has also contributed to research on syphilitic retinopathy and hydroxychloroquine retinopathy, which led to presentations given at the American Academy of Ophthalmology Annual Meeting in 2018 and again in 2019. In addition, he has participated in both ophthalmic and biomedical research projects focused on topics such as diabetes and the effects of low income on health care.

Outside of his professional endeavors, he can be found doing philanthropic work in Winston-Salem and Charlotte. In addition to volunteering at Sightsavers to offer free glaucoma screenings to the community, he provides mentoring and tutoring to children in elementary school. In his free time, he plays the piano and drums, as well as basketball.

An Eagle Scout, Mr. Koonce also belongs to the Order of the Arrow and Lambda Alpha National Anthropology Honor Society.