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                          Meet Kevin Starlings
 

Every story of impact begins with one person’s decision to rise.

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Kevin A. Starlings is, above all else, a father first, an entrepreneur, advocate, educator, and author who believes deeply in the power of redemption, resilience, and opportunity. A man of faith and purpose, Kevin has dedicated his life to building equitable pathways for youth and families of all abilities. Through The Starlings Foundation, he has worked to transform communities by connecting education, workforce development, and wellness.

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His life’s work bridges classrooms, communities, and boardrooms — driven by one mission: to make education human again. Whether mentoring students, shaping inclusive programs, or leading organizations, Kevin reminds others that purpose is possible for everyone.

 

       Mission Statement

 

To redefine education, empower every ability, and remind the world that purpose is possible for everyone.

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       What Drives My Faith.

 

Family. Second chances. And the belief that no one’s story is over. From classrooms and community centers to boardrooms and stages, Kevin brings an authentic voice rooted in experience, empathy, and hope.

 

       Milestone Highlights

 

A timeline of purpose, leadership, and lifelong service — grounded in faith, family, and community.

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       Leadership & Advocacy

 

  • Current President, VUU Chapter of Virginia Education Association Aspiring Educators — leads future teachers in professional growth, advocacy, and service, fostering leadership and collaboration aligned with the values of the Virginia Education Association.
     

  • Member, 2025–2026 Minority Political Leadership Institute (MPLI), Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute at Virginia Commonwealth University — advancing civic engagement, education reform, and community transformation.
     

  • Previous Chair, Richmond Public Schools Health Advisory Board — led districtwide initiatives to strengthen staff wellness, student health, and inclusive education policy.
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  • Member, Community Advisory Board for the Hydration Initiative (VCU) — supporting community-based health and wellness research.
     

  • Former Executive Director, Ignite Richmond— led community-driven initiatives using the ABCD model to empower residents, develop youth leadership, and build sustainable, equitable neighborhoods.
     

  • Former Youth Program Director & Social Innovation Manager, non-profit organization — led neighborhood-based initiatives that empowered residents to design sustainable community solutions.
     

  • Public Speaker & Advocate for equity, fatherhood, and education reform — inspiring audiences nationwide through storytelling and strategy.

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  • Founder & Executive Director, The Starlings Foundation — transforming lives through education, community wellness, and workforce inclusion.

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        Innovation & Education

 

  • Founding Visionary of The Starlings Academy — initiatives focused on inclusive education and enrichment programs serving individuals of all abilities across Richmond and surrounding areas.

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  • Author in Development of multiple forthcoming book series — including Kourage, With a K, The Manual They Never Gave Us, The Human Equation, The Heart Work, and When Numb Becomes Normal — exploring redemption, fatherhood, and education reform through lived experience, leadership, and research.

 

        Academic Honors & Scholarships

 

  • Presidential Member, National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS)-the nation’s largest accredited leadership honor society focused on developing purpose-driven leaders.

 

  • Current President/Member, Kappa Delta Pi (KDP) Honor Society, Virginia Union University — recognizing excellence and leadership in education.

 

  • Recipient, HBCU Promise Grant — supporting academic achievement and leadership among students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

 

  • Recipient, VUU Barco Alumni Scholarship — awarded for academic excellence and service to the Virginia Union University community.
     

  • ​UNCF 2025–2026 Bryant Gumbel Tournament Scholar — recognized for leadership, perseverance, and community impact through education.

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       Legacy & Purpose

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  • Proud Panther of Virginia Union University, studied Special Education, Business, and Psychology.
     

  • Founder of Starlings Enterprises, a multi-service company operating in the industries of family entertainment and facilities maintenance/service.

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  • Father of Four — Jaquae, Jaylin, Jamari, and Janiyah — whose love and growth remain the heartbeat behind every movement he leads.​

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  • National Eagle Scout Association Member (Since 2002), demonstrating early leadership, discipline, and commitment to service — foundations that continue to shape his work and values today.

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