Starla Simmons

Starla Simmons, LCSW-S is a Clinical Associate 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. Her teaching course load includes Social Work Practice and Field Instruction, Assessment and Treatment of Traumatized Populations, and Foundations of Social Justice.

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. She served as the liaison and coordinator for Austin ISD’s School Mental Health Centers, providing consultation and operational support for school-based therapy services at 19 middle and high schools.

Starla is a skilled and experienced facilitator around racial equity, social justice and holistic practices such as mindfulness and eco-therapy. 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 is a Board member for GALS (Giving Austin Labor Support) and UT Elementary Charter School. She is the faculty liaison for the Environmental Justice & Ecotherapy (EJET) student organization and formerly the Black Student and Scholars Network at the Steve Hicks School of Social Work.

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.