A Wellesley resident since 1999, Joan was born and grew up in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. She studied Literature and the English Language and minored in American History at Binghamton University (SUNY-B back then). Her career in NYC was spent in publishing primarily for HarperCollins in their college textbook division and then Pearson. Upon moving to MA, she replaced in-office work with freelancing from home: development editing college textbooks, ghost writing general content, grading (or, "reading") for a local business school, and, finally, consulting with bank executives on how to write more effective emails when communicating with various cultures.

In the early 00's Joan began to volunteer locally for the schools and organizations that support education, the environment, and advocate for the low-income community. She led a girl scout troop and the environmental science program at Hunnewell. Her most recent volunteer work was with Welcome Home, a home goods pantry for the recently housed and Grad Bag, an organization that collects and provides lightly used dorm room essentials for college students in need.

Joan cares deeply about helping older adults live with dignity, comfort, and connection. Passionate about housing, affordability, and support, She believes in the power of community to make life richer and more fulfilling. With a strong focus on reducing social isolation and creating opportunities to connect, she embraces the idea that it truly takes a village—and works every day to help Wellesley Neighbors be that village for its members.