This week, we express our gratitude and appreciation to five incredible leaders whose years of board service helped guide our organization through transformative years.
Thank You Outgoing Board Members
Simeon Poles
Board President (2018–2025), Executive & Governance Committees
Simeon’s strategic leadership is central to the Society’s evolution over the past seven years. First as Governance Chair and then as Board President, he has guided the organization with care, vision, and deep commitment to its mission. Under his leadership, the Society has become stronger, more focused, and better positioned to serve our mission.
Simeon is a trial and appellate lawyer at DLA Piper LLP, where he helps clients navigate the legal and regulatory complexities of innovation. His experience as a two-time federal law clerk, significant counseling experience, and collaborative spirit have shaped both his professional and board service.
Seth Williams
Treasurer (2018–2025), Executive & Finance Committees
As Treasurer, Seth was a steady hand through the financial turbulence of the pandemic and beyond. His insight into public funding and budgeting helped the Society achieve long-term stable footing.
A senior managing consultant at Public Financial Management, Seth supports state and local governments with fiscal and operational efficiency. Prior to joining PFM, Seth worked for the Office of the New Jersey Governor as Cabinet Liaison for Public Safety and a Deputy Director of Management and Operations.
Matthew Ray
Co-Chair (2019-2025), Advancement Committee
Matt is a thought leader, creative juggernaut, and overall caring person who brought unparalleled communications expertise to the Society. He has given generously of his time, resources, and creativity to get out the word on our issues and our work. His mantra—“empathy into action”—continues to shape how we connect with the public.
He is the Co-Founder and Creative Director of ChatterBlast Media, one of the region's fastest growing creative communications and marketing agencies. Prior to founding ChatterBlast, Matt worked in PR and journalism, always using storytelling to drive connection.
Professor Steve Chanenson
Secretary (2019–2025), Executive & Governance Committees
Steve's insights and vision are the foundation of the Prison Society’s strategic plan. His thoughtful leadership and steady presence helped the organization regroup after years of difficulty. He saw the power and the potential of the organization like no one else.
Steve is a Professor of Law and the Faculty Director of the David F. and Constance B. Girard-diCarlo Center for Ethics, Integrity and Compliance at Villanova University. As the Director of the Villanova Sentencing Workshop and former Chair of the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing, Steve brings an innovative approach to the study of sentencing and criminal law. His scholarship and teaching continue to shape the field of sentencing reform.
Senator Camera Bartolotta
Board Member (2019–2025)
Senator Bartolotta brought legislative expertise and deep personal commitment that is unique and profound. Her willingness to meet individually with incarcerated Pennsylvanians across the state—and advocate on their behalf—is a powerful reminder of how public service can be profoundly human.
Representing the 46th Senatorial District (Beaver, Greene and Washington counties) since 2014, she co-founded the bipartisan Criminal Justice Reform Caucus and remains committed to advocate for safe communities and better outcomes for individuals who are part of the criminal justice system.
Thank you for showing up for us and for everyone we serve. Your leadership leaves us stronger.