Widely recognized for her leadership in educational innovation and youth development, Ms. Starks has devoted her career to increasing access to robotics and STEM learning opportunities for students of all backgrounds. Through strategic program leadership, community engagement, and successful fundraising initiatives, she has helped create inclusive educational pathways that remove barriers and open doors for underserved youth.

Ms. Starks has demonstrated exceptional strength in organizational development, team building, and program expansion, leading initiatives that have positively influenced more than 7,000 students nationwide. Her work emphasizes experiential learning environments where students develop essential skills in collaboration, creativity, leadership, critical thinking, and technology.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Redlands in 1989. Combining academic knowledge with decades of educational leadership experience, Ms. Starks has built a career centered on empowering students and strengthening communities through accessible STEM education.

Throughout her professional journey, Ms. Starks has remained committed to the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed regardless of economic or social circumstances. Her leadership philosophy focuses on fostering confidence, resilience, and opportunity while equipping students with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly advancing world.

Her dedication and service have earned her multiple honors, including recognition as a finalist for the D CEO Leadership Excellence Awards in the Small Nonprofit category. Presented by D CEO, a leading business publication in the Dallas-Fort Worth region, the award recognizes influential leaders who demonstrate exceptional organizational leadership, innovation, and community impact. She has also received the Rotary Hometown Hero Award in 2026 and the Principal of the Year Award in 2015. These accomplishments reflect her continued commitment to educational advancement, nonprofit leadership, and community service.

Beyond her professional achievements, Ms. Starks remains actively involved in volunteer work through her church, The Table, in Dallas. She also enjoys reading and traveling with her children.

Looking ahead, Ms. Starks intends to continue expanding her influence through public speaking, mentorship, and the development of innovative educational initiatives that inspire future generations and strengthen communities through STEM engagement.

Inspired by the perseverance and values she developed while growing up in a single-parent household, Ms. Starks remains passionate about creating opportunities for young people to realize their full potential. Her work continues to reflect a lifelong commitment to education, empowerment, and transformational leadership.