Joan Powell has worked with leading thinkers in the public and private sector for over two decades. In the United States Congress, she served on Senator Dale Bumpers' legislative staff, concentrating on social services and education.

As Director of Research for Boston University's Office of Sponsored Programs, she investigated federal and state as well as corporate and foundation funding opportunities for faculty research and university-wide initiatives.

Since founding Leading Thoughts in 1994, she has provided research and representation for some of the business world's most creative visionaries.

Joan earned a Masters degree in Administration and Learning Environments from Harvard University and a Bachelor of Science in Education and Psychology from Bucknell University.