MindSpark Learning, a nonprofit that provides learning experiences for educators and professionals, has acquired Couragion, a provider of STEM career literacy and workforce development solutions. 

MindSpark CEO Kellie Lauth said, “We’re excited about our expansion into the education technology market with Couragion’s powerful and relevant suite of software applications. Melissa Risteff, Laura Farrelly, and Mike Castillo created a brilliant and successful organization and we are honored to carry this vision and legacy forward. MindSpark and Couragion are the perfect pairing. Together we are accelerating what is possible and elevating education to a high-impact sector.”

Risteff, Couragion co-founder and former CEO, said, “Couragion amplifies diverse role models to build awareness of what’s possible and has demonstrated promising outcomes specifically for underrepresented and highly-impacted students. MindSpark’s global footprint will expand Couragion’s reach, accessibility, and influence on the education ecosystem. I am personally excited to join the MindSpark family to further the goal of empowering human capital and unleashing collective impact. We couldn’t have found a better forever home for Couragion.”

Risteff joins MindSpark as its chief strategy officer. With more than two decades of leadership and tech industry expertise, she will work across the organization on growth initiatives and new product development, while still providing leadership for Couragion and STEMpath.”