Dr. Gary Cole earned his undergraduate degree in Microbiology from the University of Washington in 1993, followed by his Doctor of Optometry degree from Pacific University College of Optometry in Forest Grove, Oregon, in 1997. He then completed a one-year postgraduate residency in oculardisease at the Portland Veterans Administration Medical Center. After residency, Dr. Cole served for two years as an Adjunct Assistant Clinical Professor at Pacific University College of Optometry, where he mentored students in pediatrics, ocular disease, and specialty contact lenses. In November 2000, he founded East Vancouver Eye, where he continues toprovide expert and compassionate care.

Outside the clinic, Dr. Cole enjoys traveling, snowboarding, and spending quality time with his wife and four children.

Dr. Tracy Dodd, our associate doctor since 2006, is a proud native of Southwest Washington. She earned her undergraduate degrees in French and Biology from Pacific University in 1993, then continued on to complete her Doctor of Optometry at Pacific University College of Optometry in 1997, graduating alongside Dr. Cole.

Known for her warm, outgoing personality, Dr. Dodd enjoys connecting with patients and making them feel at ease. Outside of the office, she loves traveling, gardening, and--most of all--spending quality time with her husband and their two sons.

Since 2014, Crystal has been an essential part of East Vancouver Eye Clinic, taking on a wide range of responsibilities with dedication and heart. As our office manager (and often our behind-the-scenes coordinator), she helps keep everything running smoothly-from clinic operations and billing to HR, social media, and even patient care as both an optician and technician. With over 20 years of experience in the eye care field, she brings valuable insight, creativity, and a thoughtful, solutions-focused, "let's-make-it-better" mindset approach to her work.

Crystal's background is just as varied as her role at the clinic. She studied Architecture and CADD programming, and was ranked among the top of her Air Force JROTC class. Outside of the clinic, she enjoys traveling with her husband and son, dancing to a good beat, planning a party, and tracking down the next must-try restaurant.

Michelle was born and raised in Vancouver and feels fortunate to call the Pacific Northwest home. With over 25 years of outstanding customer service experience, she has worked as both a Patient Care Coordinator and an Optometric Technician. Michelle began her career in the dental field but found her true passion in eye care when she joined the incredible team at East Vancouver Eye in 2012. She has loved every moment since. Outside of work, Michelle and her husband enjoy cheering on their two children in sports and supporting them in all their extracurricular activities.

Jessica has called Vancouver home for most of her life. She began her career in eye care as an Optometric Technician at East Vancouver Eye in 2019 and has since expanded her expertise by becoming an Optician. With a strong background in customer service, Jessica is known for her compassionate approach and genuine care for those she serves. Outside of work, she enjoys giving back through community service, exploring the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, and spending quality time with her husband and daughter.

Christina joined the East Vancouver Eye team in 2017 after relocating to Washington from California, where she worked in the dental field. With over 20 years of experience in customer service and front desk roles, she brings warmth, professionalism, and a true dedication to making each patient feel cared for and supported. After taking time away during the COVID-19 pandemic to care for her five children, she returned to the team in January 2025. Her positive energy and dedication to patient care make her an invaluable part of the office.

Outside of work, Christina enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her children. As a proud single mom, life stays busy-but always full of love and learning. Fun fact: At just 16 years old, she auditioned for American Idol in Utah-twice-and made it through three rounds!

Born and raised in Vancouver, Jaylee joined our team in 2022. Specializing in dry eye treatments, she loves getting to know each patient--building real connections and making sure they feel comfortable and cared for. Kind-hearted and an old soul at heart, she brings a calm, thoughtful energy to the clinic. When Jaylee is not at work, you'll most likely find her wearing a pair of Crocs, spending time with her husband and their dog, Sadie, or hanging out with friends and family.

Kenzie was born and raised in Vancouver, WA, and has been with East Vancouver Eye Clinic since 2023. She began as a receptionist and now enjoys helping patients find the perfect pair of glasses while continuing to learn something new everyday. Outside of work, she loves to spend time with her fiance, family, and two cats. She's passionate about staying active, trying new recipes, and balancing her busy life with moments of fun and relaxation.

Kaia was born and raised in North Dakota, spent several years living in Arizona, and eventually found her permanent home in the Pacific Northwest. Prior to joining EVEC, Kaia gained valuable experience in an Optometric clinic in 2010 working as both a technician and front desk coordinator, and was thrilled in 2023 to come back full-circle to a field she loves! With nearly two decades of customer service experience, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. As our Insurance Benefits Coordinator, she plays a crucial role in ensuring our patients have a seamless experience by verifying insurance benefits and lending a friendly ear to anyone who needs help navigating the often-confusing world of insurance!

Outside of work, Kaia enjoys diving into a good book -- whether it's captivating history from long ago, an imaginative fantasy, or biographies of fascinating people both past and present, she loves a great story! Additionally, she is passionate about traveling, exploring new places, and long walks on beautiful days. Above all, she values spending quality time with her husband, two children, and family pets.

Deanna brings 28+ years of experience in the optical field and joined East Vancouver Eye in 2024. She is passionate about helping people find their perfect pair of glasses and making sure they feel confident and comfortable in their eyewear. Outside of work, Deanna enjoys spending time with her husband, their three children, grandson, and three dogs. Her favorite place to unwind is at the family's property by the lake.

Samantha joined East Vancouver Eye in January 2025, bringing with her two years of experience in the optometric field as a Patient Care Coordinator. With a passion for providing top-notch care and creating a welcoming environment for patients, she loves being a part of the front desk team. Outside of work, she enjoys playing pickleball with her boyfriend, cozy movie nights with her family & cat, getting lost in science fiction/fantasy novels, and expressing her creativity through art. Although she hasn't been with the clinic long, she's had a wonderful time getting to know our team and patients, and is excited to see what the future holds for her career at East Vancouver Eye!

Doreen was a patient at EVEC before she became an employee in 2021, and loves the patient-centered focus of the practice. She spent a few years employed with a Blue Cross of WA/AK office and brings her experience from the insurance side of things and an attention to detail to bear on billing issues. She is a painter, writes poetry, is an avid reader, and also spends a great deal of time in the kitchen and vegetable garden

Kim began her optical career in 1994 after graduating from the Ophthalmic Assistant program at Lakeshore Technical College in Wisconsin, where her husband was serving in the Coast Guard. Afterward, they drove a semi-truck together across the U.S. and Canada, then settled in the Pacific Northwest - a place she now calls home. Kim enjoys spending quality time with her family and is actively involved in her children's martial arts program. Known for her warm personality and exceptional customer service, Kim is a valued member of the EVEC team.