It's not just her 24 years of experience in eye wear services that make Optical Department Manager Chris Merciez such a valued member of our team. Her people skills are exceptional.

"I think I have a good sense of what works for people and the ability to tell them what doesn't without hurting their feelings," said the Boulder County native. "It's great when someone comes in anxious about choosing a new pair of glasses or unhappy about what they are wearing, and I can help them find new glasses that really work. Their whole face changes when they put them on. I never get tired of seeing that."

Chris started her career in eye wear as a receptionist in 1980, apprenticed under an optician for three years, then earned her optical certification. She has managed Envision Boulder's optical department since 1999.

Outside of work, the mother of two adult sons spends her time tole painting, oil painting and gardening: "I love working in the dirt more than anything."