Joan  grew up in Marblehead, MA, where she began sailing in an after school program in the 4th grade.  She actively raced in one-design boats and finally bought a partnership in a Shields Class sloop in the 1980's.  Her current boat is the 23' Sonar. Over the years, Joan has been involved with sailing at  the local, regional and national level. She is a member of the Corinthian Y.C.and its Race Committee, MASS BAY  Sailing,  US SAILING and the Marblehead Sail and Power Squadron.   She joined NWSA in 1995 and co-chaired the inaugural Boston AdventureSail®  in 1996.  Joan has co-chaired the Women's Sailing Conference since 2001.  Joan joined the Board of NWSA in 2001 and is currently serving as Vice President.