Not long ago a member sent Joan a vacation picture. It wasn't particularly remarkable, as vacation pictures go - just a guy on a skiing trip with his family. But to Joan it spoke volumes: "When this man first walked in, three steps on the step master and he was on his knees hyperventilating. I set up a slow workout plan for him. Eventually he could participate in our Tin Man Triathlon! He was thrilled. The skiing trip was a milestone. He hadn't been skiing in twelve years. He told me he thought he was old but discovered that age is just in your mind."

This is just one of the many, many testimonials Joan has had over the years from grateful, fit CVAC members who have taken advantage of her creative approach to her job.

She started at the club in 1986 as the manager of fitness and was named Athletic Director in 1990. In this position Joan is in her element working on innovative programs and finding new ways to help members reach their fitness goals through aerobics, yoga, swim lessons, personal training, --and there are more to come! She was also responsible for implementing the great idea of Kids in Motion, the full-day programs strategically timed at holidays so parents can have a day off to take care of things at home.

Joan has a degree in Physical Education and taught for a short time until she realized that her real calling is working with people who really want to get in shape.

The incredibly wide range of activities, ages, and ability levels plus the freedom to create new programs combine to make CVAC an Athletic Director's dream: "The Club is really making a difference in people's lives. The staff is making a difference. I love what I do."

Joan oversees all aspects of the Club's fitness and aquatics activities.