Joy overcame difficult circumstances growing up to earn full-ride scholarships to college and graduate school where she earned degrees in advanced mathematics. For the last 16 years, Joy built one of the most successful data-analytics firms in Kansas: Cornerstone Data, Inc., a full-service consultancy based in Kansas with a nationwide reach. Joy served for several years on the Wichita Board of Education where she fought for parents' rights, fiscal responsibility, and advocated for education reforms that improved student outcomes.
Joy has been married to Eric for 31 years, and together they have a biological son serving in the U.S. Air Force and a bonus son who lives in Chicago. A devout Christian, Joy is a faithful member of River Community Church.