The Fortune Society Names Stanley Richards President & Chief Executive Officer

Former Deputy CEO Stanley Richards will succeed JoAnne Page on January 1 after her 34 years of leadership.

[September 20, 2023]—The Fortune Society, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting successful reentry and reintegration for individuals with legal system involvement, announced today that Deputy CEO Stanley Richards will serve as the organization’s next President and Chief Executive Officer starting on January 1, 2024. Mr. Richards will succeed JoAnne Page, who has led the organization with unwavering dedication for 34 years.

Having begun his professional career with Fortune more than 30 years ago, Mr. Richards brings to this new role a wealth of experience, including lived experience, and a deep understanding of The Fortune Society’s mission. A formerly incarcerated man of color, Richards has dedicated his life to criminal justice reform and reentry initiatives, beginning first as a reentry counselor at Fortune—where he worked his way up the ladder and took on various leadership positions—to becoming the first formerly incarcerated person to serve as the First Deputy Commissioner of Programs and Operations at the New York City Department of Correction.

“When I think about my life and career, it’s hard to imagine what both would have looked like had I not connected with The Fortune Society, my first job out of the prison system,” Stanley Richards said. “I am humbled and honored to lead an organization that has been a source of opportunities for me and countless others who have sought second chances. This moment would not be possible without the support, encouragement and steadfast love of my wife of 33 years, Satara Richards, and our four children, Stanley Jr. Nyika, Kimberly, and Marquis. Their unwavering love, support, encouragement and sacrifice fill me with hope, and strength to fight the good fight and to share the love in my heart with the people and communities Fortune serves”

Mr. Richards added, “I am enormously grateful to JoAnne Page, who has been a friend and mentor, to our founder, David Rothenberg who, when Fortune started, said ‘Fortune was founded at a time that people didn’t have to apologize for caring about others’, and to the Fortune Board who, since Fortune’s founding days, have grown the organization that has paved the way for tens of thousands of people to create positive change in their lives. My journey and this moment in Fortune’s history was made possible because people believe in second chances and redemption. Throughout Fortune’s history we have had so many partners and sister organizations that leaned into the struggle to create a truly humane, fair, smaller and just system. Our sister organizations and government partners all contributed to this moment, and the goal ahead is clear and non-negotiable. I look forward to building on that partnership and leveraging Fortune’s deep and unwavering commitment to decarcerate, to improve conditions of our jails and prisons, to eliminate the barriers to reentry, and to mitigate the lifetime collateral consequences of a conviction.”

“As I look ahead to Fortune’s future, I know we are headed in the right direction—I could not imagine a better person to step into this role than Stanley Richards,” JoAnne Page said. “I had the privilege of hiring Stanley over 30 years ago when he came to us for his first job out of prison, as so many people have done. Starting as a counselor, and working under our beloved Nancy Lopez, he quickly grew in the organization and had a succession of promotions. While Stanley left Fortune on two occasions, first to help run the Health Link program for Hunter College and, more recently, to take the job of First Deputy Commissioner for the New York City Department of Correction–a historic first for a formerly incarcerated person–he has always stayed connected with Fortune and supported our work. Stanley truly is Fortune’s mission embodied; he is a tireless criminal justice advocate who approaches each task with compassion and strength, and is a shining example that new beginnings are possible—and can be quite beautiful.”

“Stanley Richards’ journey has been a heroic one,” said Fortune Society Founder David Rothenberg. “When he assumes leadership of The Fortune Society, he brings history and courage. His presence not only enhances The Fortune Society, but his story tells thousands in our city that no one is to be counted out. If you are looking for a modern Horatio Alger tale, you can begin at Stanley’s doorstep.”

“Stanley Richards has demonstrated a remarkable ability to lead through being able to take care of the participants, employees, and other stakeholders of the Fortune Society. He leads with a passion for all the people he serves. Stanley is constantly seeking a better way of doing things. I believe these qualities will make him an outstanding leader of the Fortune Society,” said Fortune Society Board Chair Dennis Kozlowski.

Search Committee Co-Chair John Eley noted, “The Fortune Society is an extraordinary organization doing critical work. It requires a leader with an unusual mix of compassion, vision, tenacity, management competence and presence. We conducted a national search and discovered, to no one’s surprise, that the best candidate is Stanley Richards. I am confident that Stan will lead Fortune to new heights and I cannot wait to follow his lead.”

Search Committee Co-Chair Ray Tebout added, “Welcome Stanley Richards as the new CEO of The Fortune Society. Throughout his distinguished tenure at Fortune, Stan has been a beacon of calm, clear, and consistent leadership, steering us through both tranquil seas of opportunity and turbulent waters of uncertainty. Among a field of highly qualified CEO candidates, Stan stood out with unshakeable confidence and articulated a transformative vision for Fortune’s future—a vision that promises to elevate the agency to unprecedented levels of success and prosperity. It is both an honor and a privilege to have witnessed Stan’s well-deserved ascension to CEO, and we eagerly anticipate the continued brilliance of his leadership journey.”

Since returning to Fortune from the Department of Correction, Mr. Richards played a critical role in Fortune’s continued growth. In fiscal years 2022 through 2024, Fortune grew significantly and added supervised release in the Bronx and transitional housing in four of the five boroughs, providing community diversion services from arraignment and badly needed housing for homeless formerly incarcerated people. Fortune grew from a $42,000,000 organization to a $66,000,000 organization; this growth included adding staffing that allowed Fortune to serve more than 11,000 people in fiscal year 2023.

Earlier this year, Stanley was appointed to Governor Hochul’s Prison Redevelopment Commission that released a report, “Unlocking Opportunity”, along with recommendations to transform the twelve closed NYS prisons. He also is a member of Governor Hochul’s Clemency Advisory Panel that advises the Governor on clemency applications, including thirteen clemency applications that the Governor recently approved.”

Elected officials, community leaders and advocates praised Mr. Richards’ appointment.

“The Fortune Society is a vital organization that supports New Yorkers returning from incarceration and strengthens our communities through critical programs and services,” said New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams. “I thank JoAnne Page for her decades of leadership, hard work, and vision, and I congratulate Stanley Richards on his appointment as President and CEO. Stanley’s direct experience in the justice system and years of leadership are vital, and I look forward to continuing to work with the entire team at The Fortune Society to help rebuild lives.”

“The Fortune Society plays a pivotal role in the criminal justice landscape of New York City. Stanley Richards’ appointment as President and CEO is a testament to his impeccable work as a leading expert in New York and across the country, in the efforts to create a more fair and just society. As chair of the New York City Council’s Criminal Justice Committee, I look forward to the continued partnership with Fortune to provide housing and much needed services to our society’s most vulnerable citizens, and advocacy on behalf of all New Yorkers for a safe, equitable, and humane society,” said New York City Councilmember Carlina Rivera.

“Founded by the talented David Rothenberg and very ably led by JoAnne Page for 34 years, under Stanley Richards The Fortune Society will continue to be the responsive, brilliant and effective organization that it has always been,” said New York City Councilmember Gale A. Brewer. “He has all of the necessary talent and background to lead Fortune: he joined the organization more than 30 years ago as a Counselor; served as the Deputy CEO; was a First Deputy Commissioner at the Department of Correction; served on the Board of Correction and the Lippman Commission; and was incarcerated as a young man. He is a manager, a leader, knowledgeable about criminal justice issues, and a very nice human being. I wish JoAnne Page well and look forward to working with Stanley Richards in the years ahead.”

“I wholeheartedly welcome the appointment of Stanley Richards as the new President & CEO of The Fortune Society. Stanley’s insights, dedication, and passion for criminal justice reform will undoubtedly enhance The Fortune Society’s ability to empower and support formerly incarcerated individuals. His extensive leadership experience in this field and his own personal journey as someone who was formerly incarcerated make him uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change and continue to elevate the organization’s vital work in our city,” said New York City Comptroller Brad Lander.

New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams said, “Stanley Richards’ selection as the next President and CEO of The Fortune Society is an inspiring and historic moment. His journey from incarceration to leadership exemplifies the power of second chances. I have no doubt that Stanley’s dedication and passion will drive positive change within the criminal justice system and support those who need it most.”

Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine said, “The selection of Stanley Richards to lead The Fortune Society is a milestone in the pursuit of criminal justice reform. His unique perspective and experience make him exceptionally suited for this role. I believe Stanley will guide the organization toward even greater heights as it continues to advocate for those impacted by the criminal justice system.”

“The Fortune Society has made a fabulous choice in naming Stanley Richards as its next CEO. There is literally not a single person in the country better qualified for this job than Stanley. He has a singular combination of high level experience in both the not-for-profit sector (as Fortune’s Deputy CEO) and government (as the First Deputy Commissioner at the New York Department of Correction) as well as lived experience,” said Michael Jacobson, Executive Director, CUNY Institute for State and Local Governance and former President, Vera Institute of Justice. “He is a thoughtful, strategic and collaborative leader and is completely committed to the mission of The Fortune Society and to the vision of a smaller, more humane justice system rooted in human dignity. Stanley was, as the saying goes, born to do this job. Bravo to The Fortune Society Board and to Stanley.”

“Stanley Richards is an excellent choice to lead The Fortune Society into its next chapter. His lived experience and extensive work in the legal field make him exceptionally qualified to champion the needs of criminal justice involved individuals. I am confident that Stanley will continue to be a force for positive change, and I look forward to collaborating with him and with Fortune to advance our shared goals of fairness, justice, and community trust,” said Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez.

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said, “The Fortune Society is a vital partner in my office’s mission to keep Queens safe while championing reforms in the criminal justice system. Outgoing President and CEO JoAnne Page played an integral role in assisting this endeavor while serving on the transition committee of my administration in 2020. I wish her well after 34 years of dedicated public service. The Fortune Society is in good hands with Stanley Richards at the helm. I look forward to continuing our partnership to strengthen alternatives to incarceration and empower our communities.”

“Stanley Richards is a visionary leader with a deep understanding of the complexities of criminal justice. His historic appointment should inspire everyone who is committed to successful reentry, alternatives to incarceration, and public safety. I look forward to working closely with Stanley to create a more just and equitable system for all,” said Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark said, “I congratulate Stanley Richards on his appointment to President and CEO of The Fortune Society. For decades, Stanley has been at the forefront of contributing to community safety and improving lives by effectively reintegrating incarcerated people back into their communities, as well as creating innovative programs in correctional facilities. I have worked with him for years and he has been an incredible partner with the Bronx District Attorney’s Office. I look forward to further collaborations with him in his new role.”

“News of the appointment of Stanley Richards as the next President and CEO of The Fortune Society will be met with thunderous applause from all who have witnessed and benefited from his tireless work on behalf of individuals and families who have been justice involved,” said Jennifer Jones Austin, CEO of FPWA and former Board Chair, New York City Board of Correction. “Having worked side by side with Mr. Richards when addressing and solving some of the most difficult challenges in New York City’s jail system, I know firsthand that in all he does in the service of others, he brings a heartfelt belief in all humans’ capacity to grow and a headstrong determination to build society’s capacity to help them.”

“Stanley Richards’ appointment as CEO of The Fortune Society marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to transform the criminal justice system and recognize leaders in the field with lived experience. His leadership will help drive progress and address the needs of those impacted by incarceration. I look forward to collaborating with Stanley to create a more just and equitable future,” said Rossana Rosado, Commissioner of the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services.

“We are thrilled that the Fortune Society’s next leader will be Stanley Richards. Stan has the perfect mix of experience, knowledge, heart, and passion to lead Fortune now and in the many years to come as it makes a profound impact in so many New Yorkers’ lives,” said Beatriz de la Torre, Chief Philanthropy Officer at Trinity Church Wall Street.

“Stanley Richards is respected throughout the city–and the country–as a highly effective and deeply experienced leader in the justice reform movement. By selecting Stanley as its next President and CEO, The Fortune Society has launched an exciting new chapter of growth and impact, while honoring the stellar contributions of his predecessor, JoAnne Page,” said Jeremy Travis, Senior Fellow, Justice Lab, Columbia University, and former President, John Jay College of Criminal Justice. “This legendary institution has long been an unwavering voice for humanity and justice. By appointing Stanley Richards, Fortune has elevated an inspirational advocate to lead the chorus.”

“Stanley Richards is a beacon of hope and inspiration in the realm of criminal justice reform. His journey from incarceration to becoming the President and CEO of The Fortune Society serves as a testament to the transformative power of redemption and second chances. Stanley’s unwavering commitment to advocating for individuals with criminal justice involvement is commendable, and I have no doubt that he will lead The Fortune Society with wisdom, compassion, and an unyielding dedication to change lives for the better.,” said Jonathan Lippman, former Chief Judge of New York and Chief Judge of the New York Court of Appeals, who currently is Of Counsel in the New York office of Latham & Watkins LLP.

“What a magnificent choice for such an important organization at a crucial time! Stanley Richards is a man of deep humanity, learning and experience. His life has been a testament to his ability to move mountains whether in making the road home from incarceration or his leadership at Fortune, the New York City Board of Correction or the New York City Department of Correction,” said Elizabeth Glazer, Founder of Vital City and former Director of the New York City Office of Criminal Justice. “He has the ability to understand problems in 3-D and to persuade by offering everyone he encounters both respect and clear facts, both the marks of an inspired and inspiring leader. His experience and leadership will be crucial as the city faces new challenges in helping others come home from jail and prison and in addressing the horrendous conditions of confinement in the city. There is no one better matched to these challenges than Stanley Richards, who will continue to be a force for good for New York and New Yorkers.”

“I am thrilled that Stanley Richards will assume leadership of The Fortune Society, an organization vitally important in the delivery of services and shaping of policy here in New York. I have had the good fortune to work with Stanley as a peer on the City’s vison to close Rikers and to address the harms of an overreaching criminal legal system,” said Nicholas Turner, President and Director of the Vera Institute of Justice. “He has demonstrated vision, judgment and sense of pragmatic ambition as a public servant. He combines insight, strategic thinking, instincts of a constructive and effective collaborator, and human decency and goodness. He is impeccably well positioned to lead Fortune at a time when we must have the courage to envision a future that delivers true safety and justice for all New Yorkers and when we must execute fearlessly and persuasively on that vision.”

New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) Acting Commissioner Daniel F. Martuscello III said, “DOCCS and the Fortune Society have key parallels in our missions. Together we both work to prepare justice involved men and women for release and to ensure they have the supportive services necessary to successfully reenter the community as law abiding and contributing citizens. We congratulate Stanley on his new position, and look forward to seeing him leverage his lived experiences and utilize his leadership skills to bring Fortune to new heights.”

Richard R. Buery, Jr., CEO of Robin Hood, said, “The mission of The Fortune Society is essential to the fight against poverty. There are more than 40,000 incarcerated New Yorkers and some 337,000 that have served time in prison or jail at some point in their lives. The consequences of incarceration are lifechanging and, for most, impoverishing. The experience can reduce lifetime earnings potential by half a million dollars. My dear friend Stanley Richards is built for this moment. He brings both his lived experience and deep professional expertise to the role as CEO. I am thrilled that Stanley has taken the reins at Fortune, and I know that justice will be better for it.”

“I can think of no one better than Stanley Richards to lead The Fortune Society as President and CEO. I witnessed firsthand his dedication to ending the overuse of incarceration when he sat on the commission that developed the groundbreaking plan to close Rikers Island, and he has played an invaluable role as The Fortune Society has partnered with the Center for Justice Innovation on numerous initiatives to reduce crime and incarceration. His leadership is distinguished by a deep well of experience, intelligence, and caring, and he knows how to get things done. I look forward to continuing to collaborate with Stanley, and The Fortune Society, as we move ahead to build a stronger, safer city and society,” said Courtney Bryan, Executive Director of the Center for Justice Innovation.

“Stanley Richards’ appointment as President and CEO of The Fortune Society is truly a win for our city. His years of dedicated leadership has helped Fortune maintain its position as one of the nation’s preeminent organizations dedicated to fighting for and serving those impacted by the criminal legal system. I look forward to our continued partnership and am eager to see where his leadership will take Fortune to next,” said Jonathan McLean, President and CEO of CASES.

“I am thrilled that Stanley Richard will continue his journey at The Fortune Society as President and Chief Executive Officer. He has been an extraordinary leader and partner in transforming lives and systems. Stan embodies the excellence, dedication, and vision that will help move us toward a more just society,” said Vivian D. Nixon, Writer in Residence, The Square One Project at Columbia Justice Lab, and former member of The Fortune Society Board.

After returning to Fortune and receiving a series of promotions, Richards became the second-highest executive with responsibilities in the overall management of Fortune and oversight of all direct service programs. He also represented Fortune’s fundraising and advocacy work, having taken on a leadership role in its David Rothenberg Center for Public Policy.

In 2014, Richards was recognized by the Obama administration as a Champion of Change for his commitment to helping individuals impacted by the justice system. He also became the first formerly incarcerated person to be appointed by the New York City Council Speaker and served as Vice Chair to the New York City Board of Correction (DOC), a regulatory oversight body for setting minimum standards of care, custody and control of people incarcerated in New York City jails.

In June 2020, Richards was appointed to lead the Working Group to End Punitive Segregation. The workgroup developed the Risk Management and Accountability System to end Punitive Segregation. In addition, in February 2021, he was appointed as a member of the Commission on Community Reinvestment and the Closure of Rikers Island.

In 2021, DOC recruited Richards to serve as First Deputy Commissioner of Programs and Operations. His appointment to one of the top posts in the department marked a true watershed moment in not only the history of the agency but in the evolution of correctional practices. While there, he supervised DOC Programs and contracted providers for incarcerated persons, including day-to-day operations, the Borough Based Jails initiative, the Correction Assistance Response for Employees and Wellness services (C.A.R.E.), the Office of Constituent and Grievance Services including 311, the Academy and Training Division, and the project to build the DOC Training Academy. He also supervised the Health Affairs Division and was responsible for managing and overseeing health-related services, including HIV/AIDS, mental health, suicide watch and assessment and reporting, suicide prevention training, health screening at intake, and inter-departmental collaboration with Correctional Health Services.

Richards is a graduate of Medaille College, Columbia University’s Graduate School of Business: Institute for Not-For-Profit Management Executive Level Program, and the Robert Wood Johnson Fellowship Program.