For Immediate Release
The ASCEND Collective Welcomes New Board Member Josh Nowack, Champion of Second Chances and Advocate for Post-Incarceration Employment
Simpsonville, SC – The ASCEND Collective is proud to announce Josh Nowack as its newest board member, bringing a wealth of expertise in finance, resilience, and advocacy for formerly incarcerated individuals. Josh’s personal journey, characterized by perseverance and transformation, embodies The ASCEND Collective’s mission to empower and uplift diverse communities.
Josh Nowack’s career includes serving as CFO for multiple mid-sized companies and running a successful tax and accounting business, achievements that were eclipsed by personal struggles including divorce, homelessness, and open-heart surgery. After his own incarceration, Josh faced the formidable challenge of rebuilding his life and career—a journey marked by resilience and determination to overcome setbacks. Experiencing first-hand the barriers that formerly incarcerated individuals face when re-entering the workforce, Josh co-founded Breaking Free Industries, a tee-shirt printing company based in Santa Ana, CA. The mission of Breaking Free Industries is to offer formerly incarcerated individuals stable employment and a second chance at success while providing high-quality, affordable apparel.
Beyond his work with Breaking Free Industries, Josh is also a lead instructor and board member of Inmates to Entrepreneurs, where he shares his insights and skills with others working to reintegrate into society through entrepreneurship. His commitment to creating pathways for success for those who face similar challenges is both inspiring and practical, highlighting the power of community support and second chances.
Josh holds a BS in Accounting from Montclair State University and an MBA from Duke University. His extensive background in financial management, combined with his advocacy and personal experience, uniquely positions him to contribute to The ASCEND Collective’s mission. In his role as board member, Josh will help guide the organization’s initiatives aimed at breaking down barriers to employment and opportunity for diverse talent across the nation.
“We are thrilled to welcome Josh Nowack to our board,” said Robyn Grable, Founder of The ASCEND Collective. “His journey and accomplishments exemplify the resilience and compassion that we strive to foster within our organization and the communities we serve. Josh’s insight and dedication to supporting formerly incarcerated individuals aligns perfectly with our vision for a more inclusive workforce.”
As The ASCEND Collective continues to expand its reach, Josh Nowack’s leadership and dedication to creating meaningful change for those with complex backgrounds will be invaluable.
For more information about The ASCEND Collective and its work in advocating for diverse talent, please visit theascendcollective.org.
Media Contact:
Cate Ashley
Cate@talentsascend.com