Justina Starrad, she/her

Justina Starrad (she/her/hers) is a Graduate Assistant for Civic Learning. In this role, she supports the building of logistical infrastructure for Engage Democracy programming such as the Civic Engagement Fair and Civic Action Week.

Justina is a 2023 McDonnell International Academy Scholar from Spanish Town, Jamaica. Her interests are rooted in using design to advantage the latent potential of culture and community. Justina earned a Master of Architecture from The Howard University in 2021 and is currently pursuing a Master of Landscape Architecture and Urban Design from the Sam Fox School.

As a budding architectural designer, Justina’s interest lies in using design to restore justice, specifically designing spaces that are deeply rooted in context and community. This passion for community engagement is what drew Justina to the Gephardt Institute, and she is looking forward to expanding her own outreach in St. Louis.

As the daughter of restaurant owners, Justina’s favorite pastime is eating, rivaled only by her love for cooking. She enjoys traveling and is excited to rediscover her love for art in St. Louis.