Hey there, I’m Starr, a fun-loving, faith-fueled woman who believes in the power of joy, healing, and a good belly laugh. I wear a lot of hats: attorney, author, nonprofit leader, speaker… but most importantly, I’m a mom. A self-proclaimed parent’s parent. I’m the snack-bringing, wisdom-sharing, “Let’s talk about it,” kind of mama who knows that healing isn’t just for kids. Adults need safe spaces too, and I talk all about that in my series Survivor’s Thoughts, raw, relatable conversations that help grown folks process pain, find peace, and rediscover their light.

 

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communications from Florida State University (Go ‘Noles!) and my Juris Doctor from North Carolina Central University School of Law. I served as an Assistant Public Defender for the Atlanta Judicial Circuit, advocating for those whose voices often go unheard. But my true calling found me through my pain. 

 

At just seven years old, I was sexually abused by family members, a traumatic experience that left me feeling paralyzed, confused, and ashamed. I stayed silent for nearly two decades. It wasn’t until a heart-to-heart with my grandmother, the late Maxine Davis, that I discovered the power of choosing joy. That choice changed everything, and it led me straight to my purpose.

 

In 2017, I founded The Starr Institute, Inc. (TSI), a nonprofit dedicated to educating, engaging, and empowering youth and the adults who support them in preventing child sexual abuse and exploitation. We create safe spaces for truth, education, and transformation. Since launching, we’ve impacted over 4,000 youth and adults through our interactive, culturally relevant workshops, and rallied support from over 800 people across 34 states and 3 countries have raised funds through our ReDiscover YOUR Light 5K Run+Walk.

 

In 2021, I published my debut book, The Abuse Algorithm: Lessons in Protecting Children from Sexual Abuse, a powerful look at real stories of child sexual abuse and its impact on families and communities. That same year, I was honored as a L’Oréal Paris Women of Worth, one of ten women nationwide recognized for extraordinary impact through charitable work.

 

As a keynote speaker, I bring heart, humor, and healing to every stage. I speak on overcoming adversity, growing through grief, being fueled by faith, understanding trauma, and the powerful impact of adults showing up for young people. My goal? To help you become the best version of yourself for you and your loved ones. 

 

If you’re ready to learn, grow, heal, and maybe even laugh a little along the way, then welcome. Let’s choose joy, together.