Candidate Bio
Chris Hanna has served the eye banking community for over 25 years. Before relocating to Utah in 2006, he spent four years as Executive Director for the Lions Eye Bank of Texas at Baylor College of Medicine and currently serves in the same capacity at the Utah Lions Eye Bank – John A. Moran Eye Center. Chris has played an active role in the Eye Bank Association of America serving as co-chair of the Accreditation Board, a member of the Medical Review Subcommittee, and Medical Advisory Board. He earned his undergraduate degree in Biology and Psychology from Houston Baptist University and MBA from the David Eccles School of Business at the University of Utah.
Candidate Statement
The strengths and skills I possess collectively shape my leadership approach grounded in action and unwavering commitment. My persistent drive to achieve ensures steady progress in addressing supply–demand disparities in our field amongst other challenges we face; I bring the stamina and focus required to move complex initiatives forward. Furthermore, my steadfast discipline provides the structure necessary to navigate rapid technological advancements and address financial pressures, dissecting significant challenges into practical and manageable actions that keep our profession stable and prepared for the future.
I approach obstacles (whether operational, ethical, or strategic) as solvable problems, equipping me to confront matters such as financial sustainability, international collaboration, and emerging ethical dilemmas with a solutions oriented mindset. My innate need to compete fuels a desire for excellence, motivating me to benchmark performance and drive our profession to lead rather than follow. Finally, my responsibility to our membership ensures commitments to public awareness, education, and stewardship are met with integrity, follow through, and respect for all.
Prior Service
- 2007 – 2009, 2014 – 2016, 2019 – 2023, 2024 – Present – EBAA Board of Directors
- 2002 – 2008, 2006 – 2008 (Co-Chair), 2012 – 2016 – Accreditation Board Member
- 2016 – 2017 – Governance Review Committee
- 2015 – 2022 – International Journal of Eye Banking
- 2006 – 2009 – Medical Advisory Board
- 2008 – 2009 – Medical Advisory Board Subcommittee
- 2008 – 2009 – Policy & Position Review Subcommittee
