IDAHO FALLS, ID – March 14, 2025 – Stukent, a leading provider of innovative educational resources, is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Stephanie Taylor-Thompson, a renowned advocate for criminal justice reform and reentry. This collaboration will bring critical financial literacy education to incarcerated individuals across the nation, equipping them with the tools needed for successful reintegration into society.
Stephanie Taylor-Thompson, a survivor of human trafficking and a formerly incarcerated individual, brings a powerful personal narrative and a wealth of experience to this partnership. Her journey from adversity to advocacy has made her a prominent voice in the movement for transformative reentry programs.
“When most people think about reentry, they often focus on the essentials, like housing, transportation, food, and clothing,” says Taylor-Thompson. “Undoubtedly, these are important, but there’s something that ties all of these together. Something that makes it possible to not only survive, but thrive. That something is financial literacy.”
Taylor-Thompson’s own experiences highlight the critical need for comprehensive reentry programs that address financial literacy. “I didn’t understand budgeting. I didn’t understand savings, let alone ever how to make a smart financial decision,” she explains. “Without the support of my parole officer, I would not be where I am today.”
Stukent’s commitment to providing accessible and impactful education aligns with Taylor-Thompson’s mission. Through this partnership, financial simulation courses created by Stukent to teach practical money management skills will be integrated into reentry programs within women’s correctional facilities. Taylor-Thompson believes these courses are “Game changers. They help returning citizens like myself gain the skills to make informed financial decisions, manage day-to-day expenses, and break the cycle of hardship.”
“We are honored to partner with Stephanie Taylor-Thompson, a true champion for change,” said Jim Holm, CEO of Stukent. “Her personal story and dedication to empowering others resonate deeply with our mission to provide education that transforms lives. Together, we will make a significant impact on the lives of incarcerated women, equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed upon release.”
This partnership builds on existing Stukent efforts to support incarcerated individuals through programs like the Televerde Foundation. We provide the Televerde Foundation with the Stukent Personal Finance simulation, a tool that allows incarcerated women to experience real-world financial scenarios in a safe, virtual environment.
This helps them develop crucial money management skills and confidence, setting them up for success upon release. You can learn more about this partnership by watching this video:
About Stephanie Taylor-Thompson
Stephanie Taylor-Thompson is a dynamic force in criminal justice reform, reentry, anti-human trafficking efforts, and addiction recovery. As the owner and CEO of Ignite Recovery and the founder of Empire Reentry and Recovery Solutions, she is dedicated to empowering individuals to rebuild their lives. Her work as a formerly incarcerated individual who achieved full pardons from Idaho and Montana, and her advocacy for others through the clemency and pardon process, highlight her unwavering commitment to justice and transformation. Stephanie holds degrees in criminology and sociology, has a master’s of social work, and is currently pursuing a Juris Doctorate.
About Stukent
Stukent is reimagining effective education, bridging the gap between academia and dynamic, fast-moving industries. Stukent provides innovative Simternships® for business, marketing, and communication disciplines. Over 7,500 high schools and higher education institutions across 84 countries use these simulations and courseware. Stukent was founded in 2013 with a mission to help educators help students help the world. Stukent is headquartered in Idaho Falls, ID. To learn more, visit www.stukent.com.
