At Stukent®, we are honored to collaborate with educators who are not only passionate about teaching but also pioneers in integrating technology into the classroom.
This month, we’re excited to recognize Mary Carlson, a dedicated professor who has been with Stukent since the beginning, making a profound impact on her students and the broader educational community.
Mary Carlson’s career is distinguished by several remarkable achievements. One of her notable contributions was during her role with the Chicago Transit Authority, where she helped launch the University Pass transit program. This program enrolled over 10 universities and colleges and provided more than 10,000 students with access to Chicago’s transit system. Two decades later, it continues to operate successfully.
In 2021, Mary played a pivotal role in developing a Digital & Social Media Marketing certificate to equip students with essential skills in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. As of January 2025, she will take on a new leadership role as President of the Illinois Community College Faculty Association.
Mary Carlson was also one of the first community college educators to incorporate Stukent’s innovative tools into her curriculum. Her forward-thinking approach to education and commitment to providing her students with practical, real-world experience sets her apart as a leader in the academic community.
“I learned that [the simulation] was more of a tool for application learning,” Mary said. “It puts their understanding of digital and social media marketing to the test.”
This hands-on approach has not only engaged her students but also prepared them for successful careers, helping them secure internships, launch businesses, and transition into new roles.
Stukent has been more than just a resource provider for Mary — she shared it’s been a true partner in her teaching journey. Mary has seen firsthand how Stukent’s tools have evolved, always staying relevant and supportive of educators’ needs. She has successfully fostered a competitive yet fun environment in her classes, which she believes has significantly motivated her students.
For Mary, the most rewarding aspect of being an educator is her students. “Students, students, students,” she said. “My students amaze me with their grit and tenacity to achieve their degree in higher education. They motivate me to do my best in bringing the best curated content to support my course learning objectives.”
Her dedication to student success is evident in the thoughtful and engaging curriculum she delivers. By incorporating hands-on learning tools and fostering a supportive classroom environment, Mary ensures that her students are well-prepared to transition into successful careers.
Each month, Stukent highlights a standout higher education instructor. Those selected use Stukent products in the classroom and exemplify Stukent’s core values and mission to help educators help students help the world.
To learn about Stukent’s first-in-the-world Simternships® and courseware and to get FREE instructor access to Stukent materials, visit Stukent’s website.
