Julia Evans Starr, MSW, is a leading authority on issues affecting the growing and diverse population of older adults. Her work transcends the branches of government (Executive, Legislative and Judicial) as well as municipalities and a vast network of community providers.
Julia led Connecticut’s Legislative Commission on Aging for over twenty years, until it was defunded by the legislature in 2016. She now serves as an aging, disability and health policy consultant. Through her work she has identified emerging trends, promoted best practices and sought responsible solutions. She has served as a credible, source of information for decision-makers in all levels of government and the private sector. Among other achievements, she worked with the Connecticut General Assembly to pass comprehensive reforms to prevent elder abuse and to establish and implement a Connecticut for Livable Communities initiative.
One of her most significant accomplishments is building, leading and energizing influential statewide councils and coalitions to improve the quality of life for older adults and persons with disabilities. Most notable is her leadership to transform long-term services and supports, including serving as chair of the Long-Term Care Advisory Council and the Money Follows the Person Steering Committee.
As a consultant, Ms. Evans Starr has been tapped by several state agencies, nonprofits and municipalities to lead and/or assist many major initiatives. Most recently, she was enlisted to help lead the development of Connecticut’s No Wrong Door initiative entitled My Place CT.
A frequent keynote speaker and panelist, Ms. Evans Starr hosts a regular WTIC-AM radio program, regularly guest-spots on WNPR and television shows and contributes to newspaper, magazine and blog articles on topical issues. She has been an Adjunct Professor at Smith College and UConn School of Social Work. Ms. Evans Starr earned her Master's Degree at the George Warren Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis.