Dr. Burns has nearly 40 years of global innovation and business leadership experience. Dr. Burns joined Dow Corning in 1983 as a researcher and specialist in organosilicon chemistry. In 1994, she became the company’s first director of women’s health. She was elected to the Dow Corning Board of Directors in 2001 and elected as president in 2003. She served as chief executive officer from 2004 until May 2011 and served as chair from 2006 until her retirement in December 2011.
Experience, Skills and Qualifications of Particular Relevance to Corning:
As the former chief executive officer of a major chemical company, Dr. Burns brings to Corning’s Board broad expertise in global innovation, directing scientific research, manufacturing and commercial management, and science and technology leadership. Reflecting the deep technical skills related to her Ph.D. in organic chemistry, and as the past honorary president of the Society of Chemical Industry, chair of the American Chemistry Council and member of President Obama’s President’s Export Council, Dr. Burns brings the perspectives of a leader in scientific innovation to the Board. Her background in organic chemistry and experience in managing the impacts of manufacturing on the environment, understanding of the effective management and disclosure of environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks and opportunities, and her educated perspective on corporate sustainability practices ensure the appropriate oversight of ESG at Corning and enable the driving of long-term value for stakeholders.
Dr. Burns has been a director since 2012. She currently serves on the Boards of HP Inc. and Kellanova.