In high school, Emily was an active volunteer at various juvenile centers and federal prisons. Regardless of the advancements in jail legislation, working in corrections led Emily to encounter many types of people. Engaging in various activities with incarcerated individuals each week, Emily formed close friendships with many people.

Witnessing the limitations faced by under-resourced institutions, Emily envisioned a brighter future. Fueled by the belief that education empowers everyone, she founded Juvie for STEM (JSTEM) to bridge the gap. Instead of waiting for additional resources, Emily championed a resourceful approach. Her motto, "creativity before capital," became the program's cornerstone. By identifying and nurturing the strengths of both students and staff, Emily fostered a collaborative spirit that turned JSTEM into a thriving hub of learning. This sense of ownership and investment fueled the program's success, empowering students to reach their full potential.

Today, JSTEM has become a program of opportunity. With chapters in 18 states and volunteers from every U.S. state (including U.S. territories), juveniles can explore a wide range of subjects, from coding and data analysis to the complex problems of astrophysics. These courses equip them with valuable tools and knowledge, preparing them for exciting futures.