Joan began her career in clinical laboratory science in the Chemistry Department at Rockford Memorial Hospital (RMH). She was the Director of the Medical Technology Program at RMH for 2 years. She then served on the faculty of the Clinical Laboratory Science Program at the University of Illinois at Springfield where she taught introductory and advanced clinical chemistry, urinalysis, biochemistry, advanced hematology, body fluids, and molecular technology to juniors & seniors in the program. She was the Director of Education & Project Planning for the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science, a professional membership organization, where she developed various continuing education courses Currently she is the Director of the School of Medical Laboratory Science at Denver Health.

She has presented many educational sessions throughout the country on chemistry, molecular and education topics. She has authored several articles and co-authored a book chapter. She received her BS degree in Medical Technology from Illinois State University and her MSEd in Adult Education from Northern Illinois University.

The author would like to thank Lor Childs of CACMLE for her computer expertise in designing the figures for this self-study unit, and Lynn Maedel of CACMLE for her enthusiasm and support.