Ashley Nichole Walkowiak began studying film and darkroom photography at the age of 13. After a sexual assault left her riddled with PTSD, she was unable to finish her photography degree, but never lost her passion for the arts. Believing that the purpose of art is understanding and connection, Ashley continued to write and photograph life after working with a trauma therapist.

After launching Found. Still lost. in 2022, Ashley began receiving invitations across the state to deliver her poetry with foundational trauma information. She jumped at the opportunity to combine her personal history as a stalking and rape survivor with her professional expertise derived from her work at the PA Office of Victim Advocate. The workshops brought her a Harrisburg Magazine Best of the Arts award.

Ashley is currently the Director of Policy, Intergovernmental Affairs & Mediation at Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) - the state’s civil rights enforcement agency. She has a deep passion for art therapy as well as justice and healing for survivors of all ages. Ashley was named a Woman of Strength, and a 2023 Forty Under 40 award-winner; she has been described as “one of Pennsylvania’s most prominent advocates for violence and trauma victims.” Ashley also serves on the Cumberland County Commission for Women and the Board of Directors of the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Pennsylvania.

When Ashley is not advocating or keeping up with her three boys, you can find her working on her next book – a memoir of using art to overcome trauma.