Jo Anne has earned a B.S. in Psychology from Tufts University and a Ph.D. in Sociology from Brandeis University. In her professional career, she have taught courses in social gerontology at Colby College and Brandeis University, served as Research Director to an Institute of Aging Research Project “Aging and Generational Relations,” and worked as a social worker for Medical Aid to the Aged. She previously served as the chair of a tenants’ organization, advocating for the needs of low-income tenants.