The Legacy

About Christine M. Burns

Christine was born in Buffalo, NY. She graduated from D’Youville College with her Bachelors in Science in 1969. She went on to earn her Masters in Education at the University of Rochester in 1974 and her Masters in Business Administration in 1993. Christine dedicated over 30 years to the healthcare field at the University of Rochester.

Chris Co-Directed the Strong Center for Developmental Disabilities (now DBP) and was instrumental in the development of the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) program. She developed curricula for use in training community physicians and dentists in the care of persons with disabilities. She was the Director of Breath of Hope, Asthma care coordination for children with uncontrolled asthma.

Chris received numerous honors and awards and had memberships in local and state community service organizations throughout her professional career. Those included Chairman of Monroe County Task Force on Prevention of Mental Retardation/Developmental Disabilities.  She was a member of the Board of Directors at Crestwood Children’s Center and a member on the Board of Directors at the Association of University Centers on Disabilities.

Chris was a vibrant speaker presenting at regional and national conferences. She authored and contributed to numerous articles, reference books and technical manuals. Chris was involved in many grants, including in the Seychelles Child Development Study.

Chris was dedicated to helping the children of this community navigate the health care system. Her contributions are paramount and will continue to guide the direction of care coordination for children with complex medical and social needs.

Dedication Event Gallery