Dr. Donaldson grew up in Kamloops where she enjoyed many different activities from swimming at Shuswap Lake to skiing at Tod Mountain.
She earned a BSc. in biological sciences from the University of Redlands in 1991 (Cum laude). Inspired by the positive interactions she’d had with her own optometrist, she decided to pursue a career in optometry. Dr. Donaldson earned her Doctor of Optometry in 1995 from the New England College of Optometry (Boston). Eager to learn more about pathology and eye disease, she completed a hospital-based residency in Primary Care at the New England Eye Institute. This turned out to be an incredible experience which ignited her passion for pushing the limits of optometry and advocating for its prominent place in healthcare.
Dr. Donaldson has been in private practice in B.C. since 1996. She loves clinical care and the privilege of caring for her patients’ eyes, vision, and overall health. Dr. Donaldson has treated patients suffering with dry eye for many years, and enjoys the challenge of helping them with an empathetic and personalized approach.
Since 2000, she has been involved in supporting our profession both with the Association and in regulation. Dr. Donaldson was an elected member of the College Board from 2014-2023, and Chair of the Board from 2020-2023. Dr. Donaldson was presented with the BC Doctors of Optometry President’s Award in 2022, for excellence in service to the profession.
Community service and inclusion have been a priority for Dr. Donaldson and the entire team at White Rock Optometry, including support for the new Peace Arch Hospital ER, Sources Women’s Place, and our local highschool science students.
Married to Dr. Brad Seely, they are proud parents to three children. Outside of clinical care, Dr. Donaldson enjoys travelling, running, art, and cooking.