Joni is an advocate for research and innovation as a pathway to proven and practical solutions. She has led multiple projects, moving them from concept to application, and helping partners successfully navigate the funding landscape. Prior to working in research and innovation, Joni spent ten years working in non-profit organizations developing and delivering programs and services for people navigating social, economic, and interpersonal challenges, with a particular focus on supporting women and girls.

Joni holds an undergraduate degree from Mount Allison University and a Master of Applied Health Services Research from the University of New Brunswick. Her graduate research focused on maternal mental health which was driven by her volunteer work as a peer support mentor for new mothers coping with postpartum depression. She also helped establish a grassroots organization that lobbied government to bring midwives to New Brunswick.

Joni has served on the Parent School Support Committees at three different schools, Frank L. Bowser elementary school, Riverview Middle School, and Riverview High School. She has twice served terms on the YWCA Moncton Board of Directors and was an organizing member of the Homeless Hotel Steering Committee. 

Joni was born in Moncton, where she lived, worked, and volunteered for many years until relocating to Fredericton in 2019, where she lives with her partner, Felipe Chibante, a professor of chemical engineering and entrepreneur. Joni is proud to have raised her four children, Logan, Connor, Riddick, and Maddax in our beautiful province and looks forward to serving the constituents of the Fredericton Lincoln riding.