The STAR Center board is excited to announce Dr. Jennifer Graves as President of The STAR Center effective June 1, 2022.

According to a press release from Cassidy (Sheppard) Spencer – vice president of Development, Marketing & Events – Graves previously served as the founding Director of the Union University EDGE Program, which provides a post-secondary education for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

She also served as an adjunct instructor; teaching courses on inclusionary practices for individuals with disabilities and learning in a diverse classroom.

“I am incredibly excited to have the opportunity to lead The STAR Center,” said Graves. “The focus of my entire career has been to provide education and training to individuals with disabilities, encouraging increased skills and independence that lead to a better quality of life.

“This aligns perfectly with The STAR Center’s mission ‘to help any person with any disability to realize their potential.’”

Graves received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Science from Union University, minoring in Special Education and Secondary Education.

She completed a Master of Science Degree in Counseling and Personnel Services; and a Doctor of Education Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, with a concentration in Special Education, from the University of Memphis.

“It was no easy task for the search committee, as there were numerous qualified applicants both local and out of state,” said Dr. Gregg Mitchell, The STAR Center Board Chair, “The board of The STAR Center feels certain that after much deliberation through an extensive process, we have landed on the right person to lead The STAR Center efforts throughout the state of Tennessee.”

The mission of The STAR Center is to help any person with any disability realize their potential.

Founded in 1988, The STAR Center is dedicated to provide services for education, employment, and independence for individuals with disabilities across the state of Tennessee.

(PHOTO: Dr. Jennifer Graves)