Roseanna Thompson has dedicated her entire career to health care, steadily rising from her early days as a clerk to becoming the Director of Clinical Operations for Primary Eye Care and Pediatrics at ICO.

The commitment she brings to her daily tasks is reflected in the care she shows for her colleagues and the patients she serves. As the leader of the Clinical Leadership Program, a professional development initiative, she works one-on-one with Clinical Service Associates (CSAs) to help them build their leadership skills. “We function best when there is clear communication and a shared vision of why we do what we do,” says Roseanna. “There can be a lot of emotions in the clinic. We all have to present a calm, professional front, even in the face of anger and frustration. I really believe everybody starts somewhere, and I’m doing my part to help advance as many people as possible, just as so many people helped me grow.”

Her focus on fostering competency and collaboration is also why she actively participates in the Employee Appreciation Committee. “Although it’s the lighthearted part of my job, it’s incredibly important,” she says. “Communication across the IEI isn’t always perfect, so we need ways to connect as a team. These events allow us to break down silos and get to know each other personally. When staff feel engaged and want to come to work, the environment improves for everyone.”

Without Roseanna, much of the clinic wouldn’t run smoothly. From monitoring and correcting billing activity for primary eye care and pediatrics to managing schedules for faculty, students, and patients, her contributions are a critical part of keeping the IEI operational.