R. Starr Armstrong
Norfolk,VA
Summary
Innovative nonprofit founder, literacy and racial justice advocate with 8+ years of experience developing educational programs that uncovering hidden historical narratives, challenge systemic racism and empower communities through knowledge. Combines strategic vision and expertise in creating transformative learning experiences that cultivate critical understanding of anti-Blackness in the United States.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Professional Speaker & Education Consultant
Independant
Norfolk, Virginia
02.2019 - Current
- Design and facilitate interactive workshops for educators, incorporating culturally affirming literature and culturally affirming instruction.
- Deliver keynote presentations on critical topics, including anti-Black racism, historical erasure, and educational equity.
- Create transformative learning experiences that challenge dominant historical narratives
- Partner with educational institutions to develop curriculum focused on historical truth-telling.
- Consistently achieve 95% positive feedback through exceptional communication and audience engagement strategies.
Founder & Executive Director
Clever Communities in Action
Norfolk, Virginia
05.2016 - Current
- Established a social-impact organization focused on confronting historical inequities through innovative literacy programs
- Developed virtual literacy instruction methods during the pandemic, maintaining 85% student engagement
- Managed comprehensive technology platformsfor delivering literacy and racial justice programs
- Secured $150,000 + annually through compelling proposals and creative funding approaches
- Implemented metrics-driven evaluation methods, yielding 40% improvement in literacy outcomes
Community Outreach Specialist
Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation
Virginia Beach, VA
02.2009 - 05.2016
- Developed curriculum for after-school enrichment programs focused on leadership, culture, and literacy
- Created assessment tools to evaluate program effectiveness, implementing improvements based on feedback
- Designed and delivered educational workshops that bridge historical understanding across diverse demographics within the community.
- Trained and supervised 10+ part-time instructors, emphasizing leadership and collaboration skills
- Built strong community partnerships to expand educational reach and impact, including schools and libraries.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
Jacksonville State University
Jacksonville, AL05-2005
Skills
- Racial Justice Education
- Strategic Partnership Development
- Workshop Facilitation
- Curriculum Innovation
- Public speaking
- Audience Engagement
- Citizen Historian Development
- Literacy Instruction
- Program Evaluation
- Program Management
- Grant Writing
- Student and Community Engagement
Accomplishments
- New Journal and Guide Impacting Lives Award
- Black Diamond Community Impact Award
- NAACP Community Service Award
- Educational Innovator Award
Timeline
Professional Speaker & Education Consultant
Independant
02.2019 - Current
Founder & Executive Director
Clever Communities in Action
05.2016 - Current
Community Outreach Specialist
Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation
02.2009 - 05.2016
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
Jacksonville State University
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