Careers in Vision Services Spotlight: Emily Thornton, Gamma Omicron-Indiana State

Our Do Good Sisterhood represents thousands of members who work every day to put more good into the world through Service for Sight. During Do Good Week, the Delta Gamma Foundation is highlighting members who have integrated the spirit of Service for Sight into their professional careers to bring more awareness to career paths related to Service for Sight. See Emily’s feature on Delta Gamma’s LinkedIn page. 

Emily Thornton, Gamma Omicron–Indiana State, data coordinator, VIPS (Vision Interventions & Parental Support) 

Tell us more about what a person in your professional role does. 

As a data coordinator, I make sure our data is accurate, organized, and clean. I track things like services, progress, and information about the children and families we serve. A big part of my role is turning that data into information that helps VIPS understand where needs are growing, make informed decisions and ultimately support the families we serve. 

What is the primary mission of your organization? 

VIPS serves children who are blind or have low vision and their families throughout Kentucky and Indiana from birth to three. Our goal is to provide the support and services children need to reach their full potential. That includes things like early intervention, vision-specific education, orientation and mobility services, and support for parents and families. 

How did you become interested in this field? 

I became interested in this field because I wanted to do work that made a difference. Growing up, I was a peer in a special education preschool, which gave me an early appreciation for the importance of inclusion and support. Looking back, it feels full circle that I now work in a field supporting children and families in a similar way. 

How did Service for Sight influence your career path? 

Service for Sight gave me an early connection to the world of blindness and low-vision services and helped me understand the impact organizations like VIPS can have on children and families. Being part of Delta Gamma has shown me that service could be more than something I volunteered for — it could become part of the work I do every day. That connection ultimately made me more passionate about finding a career where I could contribute to the same mission professionally. 

How has Delta Gamma stayed relevant in your life and career? 

I’ve stayed connected with sisters from my chapter while building new friendships through the Louisville alumnae chapter. My career at VIPS also gives me a way to carry the spirit of service I found through Delta Gamma into my work every day. 

What advice would you give someone interested in pursuing a career in vision services? 

I would encourage anyone interested in vision services to be open to the many ways they can make an impact. There are so many opportunities beyond direct services, including data, education, advocacy, fundraising and administration. I would also encourage them to find an area they’re passionate about and look for ways to use their skills to support the mission. There is a place for everyone in this field.