Jan brought a wealth of experience with her to Grand Valley. She had taught mathematics in the Lansing public schools and for the Oregon College of Education. Jan was also a consultant in the Office of Research Services, an evaluator of a teacher corps project, and a research intern in the Institute for Research on Teaching. At GVSU Jan created strong ties between our program and schools in areas where students might not have access to learning mathematics, such as inner-city Grand Rapids. In our department, she was instrumental in creating the mathematics education courses in the minors for students seeking elementary certification. Jan was a mentor to faculty, not only in mathematics education but also any faculty who wanted to enrich their understanding of mathematics education.

Jan was an important contributor to the Middle Grades Mathematics Project (a predecessor of the National Science Foundation sponsored Connected Math Project), and was a co-author of books on teaching mathematics, including "Mouse and elephant: Measuring growth" and "Middle Grades Mathematics Project Grades 5-8".  Outside of GVSU, Jan was an avid cello player, often playing with the Benzie Area Symphony Orchestra.