Candidate Bio
Sean Poppoff began his career in academic administration at UC San Diego in the early 90’s with stints in basic sciences, otolaryngology, and radiology. He moved to Seattle where he worked for the University of Washington and Seattle Children’s Research Institute in neonatology and neuroscience, respectively. In late 2016, he became the administrator for Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, which is where he had his first exposure to eye banking.
One year into his tenure as administrator, Lions Gift of Sight faced external competition for the first time. He was asked to help face this challenge. One year later, the executive director retired, and Sean was appointed interim executive director, followed by being asked to be their permanent executive director. He was at a crossroads – continue in his lifelong career or take on a new challenge. After attending their Donor Recognition Program the decision was made for him. The impact eye bankers have on so many people is real and he wanted to be a part of it. At this point, his career became a calling and it is a decision he has never regretted.
Candidate Statement
My career in academic administration serves me well at Lions Gift of Sight (LGS). LGS faced many challenges in the last six years. We have faced these challenges with high energy, enthusiasm, a desire to learn, hard looks at ourselves, admitting where mistakes have been or are being made, and a willingness to pivot when we are off course. I am proud of the team at LGS and all we have accomplished and learned. This is reflected in improved performance across most, if not all, eye banking metrics.
Eye banking is facing a future that is full of change, potential pitfalls, challenges, and importantly, opportunity. Developments such as artificial intelligence, artificial corneas, cellular therapy, and things unknown are in development and eye banks need to be prepared for this future, now.
We are better together and through networking, partnership, innovation, and a willingness to learn and pivot we can create our future, together.
The EBAA is our organization. It needs leaders who challenge the norm, bring innovative and fresh ideas, are willing to be wrong, and an ability to pivot when the facts dictate a new course. I will bring these characteristics to the board.
Prior Service
- Finance Committee (2020 – Present)
- Constitution and Bylaws Committee (2024 – Present)
