Personal Interests...Joan's Life Beyond Academia.

I have many personal interests that occupy my free time...more interests that I actually have time!   Below are just a few of the activities and interests that I enjoy outside of the University:

• Cycling, backpacking and hiking - especially out West!
• Skiing (backcountry, XC, downhill, telemark) and snowshoeing
• Gardening and cooking ethnic foods.
• Travel and adventure - trying new things and seeing new places.
• Training and working my K-9 partners in search and rescue.

One of my most involved and passionate activities is volunteering as a Search and Rescue K-9 Handler.  I am currently the President of Illinois Search Dogs, and have been an active and operational member with teams in Montana and Utah prior to moving back to the Midwest.  I have been working my partner "Chief" (a Redbone Coonhound/Lab cross) for over 11years now and am now training and working my second K9 partner "Sula" (Redbone Coonhound). It is a truly rewarding experience and community service.  Click here for more information on my 'other'job as a K-9 search and rescue volunteer.