Joshua Harrison
Chief Executive Officer & Founder/ Board President
Education & Certifications:
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Associate of Science in Political Science – Prairie State College
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Bachelor’s in Secondary Education (Mathematics, in progress) – Western Governors University
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Future Graduate Studies: MA Nonprofit Administration & PhD Educational Leadership
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Professional Experience:
Founder, educator, and creative entrepreneur with extensive experience mentoring youth, leading afterschool programs, and managing multi-department operations. His background bridges education, business strategy, and creative arts all serving one mission: empowering the next generation.
My Story
A proud product of Park Forest, Joshua Harrison was shaped by both the strength and struggles of the Southland. Raised by a single mother and growing up in underserved neighborhoods including Markham, Harvey, Robbins, Sauk Village, and Chicago Heights, he experienced firsthand the challenges young people face daily. As the middle child of eleven, he learned early the values of leadership and perseverance.
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His mentor, the late Mr. Melvin Pumphery, once told him, “You are different than those other kids — I see greatness in your future.” Those words became a lifelong motivator. From volunteering as a teen tutor in District 163 to founding CAB Studios & Recreations, Joshua’s purpose has always been clear: to ensure every young person has access to safety, creativity, and opportunity.
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Joshua continues to dedicate his career to community transformation, envisioning CAB as both a resource and a movement. His dream extends beyond the organization — to serve on the local school board and reshape how youth access education, arts, and recreation. “I want every child who’s experienced even a fraction of what I went through to know there’s a better future — and I hope my peers rise with me to build it.”