Joy Goeben

Joy Goeben is a Republican politician currently serving as a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, representing the 5th Assembly district. She took office in January 2023, following her election to fill a vacancy left by the resignation of the previous incumbent. Goeben has a background in education and business, and she is actively involved in her community through various leadership roles. Her legislative work focuses on issues related to education, family rights, and child protection.

Early life and career

Joy Goeben was born on October 16, 1972, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where she was raised. Her early education took place in the local public school system, culminating in her graduation from Green Bay East High School. Following her high school education, Goeben pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, where she earned a bachelor's degree in education. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for her career as an educator.

After completing her undergraduate studies, Goeben began her professional journey as a teacher in the Ashwaubenon public school system, where she dedicated herself to educating young minds. Her experience in the classroom provided her with insights into the educational needs of children and the challenges faced by educators, which would later inform her legislative priorities.

In addition to her teaching career, Goeben ventured into entrepreneurship by opening the Joyful Hearts Family Childcare preschool center. She operated this childcare facility for a decade, during which she provided early childhood education and care to numerous families in her community. This experience not only enhanced her understanding of child development but also deepened her commitment to family-oriented services.

Goeben is also involved in her family's business, Classic Carpet Cleaning, where she assists her husband, Ben, in its management. This dual role as an educator and business owner has equipped her with a diverse skill set that she brings to her political career. Furthermore, her community engagement extends to her participation on the board of Christ Alone Church Leadership, where she contributes to the church's governance and outreach efforts. Additionally, she has served on the board of the non-profit organization Green Bay Area Christian Homeschoolers, reflecting her commitment to educational alternatives and support for homeschooling families.

Legislative service

Goeben's entry into politics was marked by a significant opportunity when the incumbent representative for Wisconsin's 5th Assembly district, Jim Steineke, resigned in the summer of 2022. Recognizing the need for representation in her community, Goeben decided to run for the vacant seat. She successfully secured the Republican nomination by defeating two opponents in the primary election held in August 2022. Following her nomination, Goeben faced Democratic challenger Joseph Van Deurzen in the general election, where she emerged victorious, thus beginning her tenure in the Wisconsin State Assembly in January 2023.

Since taking office, Goeben has assumed several key roles within the Assembly. She serves as the Chair of the Environment Committee, where she oversees discussions and legislation related to environmental issues affecting Wisconsin. In addition to this leadership position, she is the vice-chair of the Education Committee, reflecting her ongoing commitment to educational matters. Goeben is also a member of several other committees, including the Children and Families Committee, the Housing and Real Estate Committee, the Committee for Jobs and the Economy, and the Regulatory Licensing Reform Committee. Her involvement in these committees allows her to address a wide range of issues that impact her constituents and the state as a whole.

Policy focus and district

Goeben's legislative priorities are closely aligned with her background in education and her experiences as a business owner and community leader. Her work in the Assembly has primarily focused on education, family rights and services, and child protection. As a proponent of educational initiatives, she advocates for policies that support teachers, enhance educational opportunities for students, and promote parental involvement in education. Her role on the Education Committee allows her to influence legislation that directly affects the quality of education in Wisconsin.

In addition to her focus on education, Goeben is dedicated to advocating for family rights and services. This includes supporting policies that strengthen families and provide resources for parents and children. Her commitment to child protection is evident in her legislative efforts aimed at safeguarding the welfare of children in Wisconsin. Goeben's pro-life stance further underscores her dedication to family values and the protection of vulnerable populations.

Representing the 5th Assembly district, Goeben is attuned to the needs and concerns of her constituents in Brown County and surrounding areas. Her deep roots in the community, combined with her professional background, enable her to engage effectively with the residents she serves. Goeben's legislative work reflects her commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by families and children in her district, as well as her broader vision for the state of Wisconsin.

In summary, Joy Goeben's journey from educator and business owner to state legislator exemplifies her dedication to public service and community engagement. Her legislative focus on education, family rights, and child protection aligns with her personal and professional experiences, making her a representative who is both knowledgeable and committed to the well-being of her constituents. As she continues her service in the Wisconsin State Assembly, Goeben remains an active participant in shaping policies that impact the lives of families and children throughout the state.