After earning a master’s degree in special education from Hofstra University, Joan's career has taken different turns, starting with teaching special education in Fort Greene, Brooklyn.

After earning a second master’s degree in applied anatomy and physiology from Teachers College, Columbia University, she acted as a researcher, coach, and team manager for Team USA during the six-year run-up to the Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

She has now settled into a quieter life as the STEAM coordinator at her local children’s library in Cutchogue, NY.