Representative Burnough began representing and advocating on behalf of Clayton County long before being elected to the Georgia General Assembly. As a dedicated public school administrator, Rhonda created and implemented a number of programs that have enriched the quality of education received by students in the state. She spearheaded the DAY ONE initiative, which promotes awareness of the importance of beginning the academic year with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn, and the Celebrity Reader program, where community leaders read to students.

Rhonda is the founder of several community organizations, including 500 Men Standing in the GAP, a volunteer program that encourages fathers and men to become actively involved in the lives of their children and others in the community. She also founded 500 Women Standing in the GAP.

Rhonda's commitment to bettering the lives of those in Clayton County has not gone unnoticed, as she has been selected to serve on several local boards of directors. Her philanthropic work has also not gone unnoticed, as she is the recipient of a number of service based awards, including the 2013 National Community and Service Award from President Barack Obama and the 2012 Gold Volunteer Service Award, also from President Barack Obama.