From a happy homemaker to a woman empowered in science, Joan C. used her gifts and talents to grow a family and inspire at-risk youth.
Born and raised in Toronto, Canada, she pursued an undergraduate degree in physics with an interest in astronomy. Moving to Ottawa after college, marriage was in the stars for Joan to Allen Cook in 1959. Moving to Massachusetts, where she spent four years in Cambridge and 50 years in Wellesely, Joan enjoyed being a stay-at-home mom to Caroline, Allen and Frances from the1960s through the early 1980s.
With her children grown and on their way educationally, Joan reached even higher and received a master’s degree in biochemistry and began teaching math and science. She worked with the Boston Church inner city after-school program for at-risk girls. She also sang in the church choir for 30-plus years and was involved in a knitting circle that helped the needy.
Moving to Kensington Park in December of 2014, Joan is very energetic and enjoys walking outdoors, as does her husband, and going out on scenic rides. While he likes to sing, she also loves music and Zumba, which has become a real passion of hers!
Striking a pose with her hair all done up weekly and those dance moves, Joan makes the most of every day and is always ready for a good time. Whether it is arts and crafts along side her best buddy Mary Abel or keeping up with her 10 grandchildren, ranging in age from six to 30, and one great grandchild who is 11 years old, she remains extremely active.
A kind soul who is always smiling and looking her best, Joan has made a career of helping and inspiring others by her own example as she still does today, so don’t be surprised when she dances her way into your heart sometime soon!