Joy recently relocated to Washtenaw County from Austin, Texas, to be closer to family. Joy holds 20+ years of public sector experience, including serving as a national park ranger, nonprofit leader, and city council member.

Previously, Joy served as the Chief Mission Officer at Austin Parks Foundation, where she guided the strategy and implementation of APF's programs and advocacy efforts. Under her leadership, APF garnered an additional $4 million for the City of Austin's Parks Department budget, and celebrated the 20th anniversary of It's My Park Day, a twice-yearly volunteer event that improves hundreds of parks across the city, leveraging thousands of volunteers.

Her professional journey also includes a progressive career with Sustainable Food Center, where she advanced from a Program Coordinator to Deputy Director. As Deputy Director, she oversaw three core programs to support a more just food system by working directly with farmers and consumers. Just after launching the organization's new 2035 vision, Joy secured the largest investment ever from a prominent foundation.

Joy holds her Master of Public Affairs degree from the University of Texas LBJ School and is bilingual in Spanish. She enjoys hiking and camping with her family and gardening with native plants.