JoAnn brings decades of legal experience and a strong commitment to serving individuals and families throughout Minnesota. 

A native of Albany, Minnesota, she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Minnesota Morris before completing a Master's degree in Constitutional and Legal History at the University of Minnesota. She went on to earn her Juris Doctor from the University of Minnesota Law School in 1996. In addition to her legal practice, JoAnn is a certified Family Law mediator and has remained actively involved in both legal and community organizations throughout her career. 

Her background in constitutional and legal history provides a deep understanding of the laws and principles that protect individual rights and equal access under the law. 

Outside the office, JoAnn is an accomplished gardener and a University of Minnesota Master Gardener. She is also an active member of the Stearns County Master Gardeners, reflecting her longstanding dedication to education, service, and community involvement.