The board of directors of Vision Is Priceless announced Oct. 31 the appointment of Cheryl Stakes as the organization’s next executive director, effective Nov. 4.
Stakes will succeed Jami Bueker, who, after eight years, will be departing Vision Is Priceless to pursue her Ph.D. full-time at the University of Florida.
Under Bueker’s leadership, the organization reached several milestones including the launch of a mobile vision clinic and an increased collaboration with the Arlington Eye Clinic that will enhance the services offered by Vision Is Priceless.
“We are thrilled to welcome Cheryl to her new role. She brings extensive knowledge of the organization, a track record of success and a deep passion and commitment for the mission of Vision Is Priceless. As executive director, we know that Cheryl will work to grow our organization and increase the impact Vision Is Priceless has in our community,” Brian Schwam, M.D., chair of the Vision Is Priceless board of directors, said in a news release.
Stakes brings more than 23 years of experience in nonprofit management and program delivery and has been Vision is Priceless program director for the past nine years.
“I look forward to leading our dedicated team as we expand our reach, deepen our partnerships, and continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve,” Stakes said in the release.
Founded in 1996, Vision Is Priceless’s mission is to assess, sustain and improve the visual health of children and adults in Northeast Florida through education, vision screenings, treatment and referrals. Vision Is Priceless serves Duval, Clay, St. Johns, Nassau and Baker counties.