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Columbia School of Social Work
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Starla Simmons, LCSW-S

Clinical Assistant Professor
Steve Hicks School of Social Work
Austin, TX, United States

Starla Simmons, LCSW-S is a Clinical Assistant Professor and Director of the Earl Maxwell Scholar Program at the Steve Hicks School of Social Work at The University of Texas at Austin. She is strongly rooted in racial justice and liberation, with a passion for supporting the vitality, resilience, and collectivism of Black, Indigenous, and communities of color. As Earl Maxwell Program Director, she provides both program oversight and practicum instruction for social work student interns placed in community organizations. In addition, Starla has over a decade of experience as a school social worker, providing a range of direct care services to students, families, and staff.

In 2016, Starla served as Austin leader for the national non-profit Outdoor Afro, which celebrates and inspires Black leadership in nature. In the maternal health equity sector, she served as Interim Executive Director for Black Mamas ATX, and Board Chair for Mama Sana Vibrant Woman. Currently, she sits on the Board of UT Elementary School and is the faculty liaison for the Environmental Justice & Ecotherapy (EJET) student organization at the Steve Hicks School of Social Work. Her teaching course load includes Social Work Practice and Field Instruction, Assessment and Treatment of Traumatized Populations, and Foundations of Social Justice.

At home, Starla is mama Bear to her two children Maya and Langston and spirited partner to her husband, Thomas. She loves exploring natural swimming holes, sitting under trees, camping and creative expression.

Disclosure information not submitted.

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