Joan Secchia was born in Saginaw, Michigan. She grew up and went to school in Midland, Michigan, where her father worked for The Dow Chemical Company.

Mrs. Secchia attended Michigan State University, where she was a member of Chi Omega sorority, and graduated with a degree in elementary education. After graduation, she married Peter Secchia, who was also a graduate of MSU. The following Fall, Mrs. Secchia taught 4th grade at an elementary school in Rockford, Michigan. She also taught fifth grade in East Grand Rapids, Michigan.

In 1989 Joan moved to Rome when Peter served as US Ambassador to Italy until 1993, Mrs. Secchia was active in a variety of civic and community organizations. While in Rome, Mrs. Secchia continued a wide range of activities. She was a member of the Fulbright Commission, a board member of the USO, was instrumental in the formation of a Rome chapter of the Navy League, and was active in promoting Girls' Town and Boys' Town of Italy. In addition, Mrs. Secchia planned and directed an extensive restoration project at the Villa Taverna, the residence of US Ambassadors to Italy.

Joan was a member of the Junior League, a hospital guild, served as a board officer and on the executive committee of the Kent County Red Cross, and was president of the East Grand Rapids High School Parent, Teacher, Student Association. Joan has also served as a board member of Opera Grand Rapids, the Children's Assessment Center, the Student Advancement Foundation, the Women's Resource Center, and as a Trustee of Aquinas College in Grand Rapids.

In addition, Mrs. Secchia has been involved in numerous political campaigns, serving as Kent County co-chair for former Governor Milliken and was twice elected as a precinct delegate.

Joan lives in East Grand Rapids and has four children; two daughters and two sons.

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