Meet Starr
Starr Davis is an attorney, author, speaker, and self-proclaimed parent’s parent who brings raw honesty, faith-fueled resilience, and a whole lot of heart to everything she does. She is the Founding Executive Director of The Starr Institute, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to preventing child sexual abuse and exploitation through education, empowerment, and community engagement.
A survivor herself, Starr uses her story to spark healing and conversation, helping both youth and adults find their voice and their joy. She earned her B.A. in Mass Communications from Florida State University and her J.D. from North Carolina Central University School of Law. She previously served as an Assistant Public Defender with the Atlanta Judicial Circuit and was named a L’Oréal Paris Women of Worth honoree in 2021.
Through her powerful keynotes and Survivor’s Thoughts series, Starr speaks on overcoming adversity, growing through grief, being fueled by faith, understanding trauma, and the impact of adults showing up for young people. Her mission? To create judgment-free spaces where healing is possible and joy is always within reach.
Nonprofit Leader
The Starr Institute
The Manifestation of a Promise
As a child, I made a vow: One day, I would help kids like me. The Starr Institute is rooted in my firsthand experience of the strength that comes from triumph over the pain of sexual abuse. I founded The Starr Institute in Atlanta in 2017 with a mission to prevent the sexual abuse and exploitation of youth. My journey as a child sexual abuse survivor called me to action, inspiring me to create the safe place I once needed. Just as my grandmother was that trusted adult for me, I am committed to building lifelong relationships with the youth we serve. My story is also my mother’s story, and she is one of The Starr Institute’s biggest supporters. She overcame substance abuse as I fought to heal from sexual abuse. Our journeys are intertwined, and through this work, I am dedicated to breaking cycles and creating lasting change.
Author
A Blueprint for Change
The Abuse Algorithm: Lessons in Protecting Children from Sexual Abuse
One in ten children will experience sexual abuse before their 18th birthday. But here’s the truth, child sexual abuse is preventable. Part memoir, part resource guide, The Abuse Algorithm exposes the myths surrounding abuse and provides real solutions for keeping kids safe. This book challenges readers to confront difficult topics, educate themselves on prevention and intervention, and commit to becoming trusted adults who listen, support, and protect young people.
Keynote Speaker
Keynotes That Spark Change
Energy. Storytelling. Truth.
My keynotes don’t just inspire, they challenge, empower, and equip people to take action. Whether you’re an organization, school, or community group, these talks will leave your audience ready to step into their power.