Ivy Mathis

Re-Entry Specialist

Ivy was sent to prison on a life sentence as a child. Once there, she educated herself and became involved in programs that would steer her on a better path. After earning her G.E.D., she held many positions in Toastmasters and held many positions in this club. This and more helped her to develop leadership skills and enhance her innate gifts. Ivy is a graduate of culinary arts and drama programs. She was valedictorian of the School of Righteousness. She also was a dance instructor, sound tech, and one of the few event organizers for the institution. When Judge Trudy White arranged trips for incarcerated women to go into schools and tell children what led to them being there, Ivy was one of the speakers. After 26 Ivy was released from prison in December of 2018. Her freedom was the direct result of many years of formerly incarcerated leaders organizing against juvenile life sentences. She was the first woman released on parole in Louisiana under these new laws.

Ivy describes being a part of VOTE as an honor that heightens her ability to continue fighting for those left behind and being a voice for formerly incarcerated women.