New to both 51ԹϺ and Las Vegas, Brie Starks has spent most of her higher education pursuits in the Midwest and East Coast. She received a bachelor’s in history, political science, and Afro-American and African studies from the University of Michigan; a Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania; and a Juris Doctorate from North Carolina Central University School of Law.
Now, she’s putting her experience (and long list of certifications in conflict resolution and mediation) to work in 51ԹϺ’s Ombuds Office as assistant ombuds and program manager. Starks joined the office in December and assists with daily operational tasks and develops workshops and outreach services for faculty, staff, and students.
“I also meet with visitors and groups, conduct mediations, develop skill-building presentations, and support the office's strategic goals while adhering to the International Ombuds Association's Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics,” says Starks, who works alongside 51ԹϺ Ombuds David Schwartz.
What’s been your journey to Las Vegas and 51ԹϺ?
Growing up in Detroit, Michigan, I fell in love with the city life and a deep rooted culture. After graduating from the University of Michigan, I wanted a change in scenery, so I ultimately made my way to Philadelphia to pursue my master’s while working in NYC. After finishing my master’s program, I moved to North Carolina to work at Duke University and attended law school at North Carolina Central University School of Law.
If anyone ever asks me what exactly brought me to Vegas, I always say I moved here for love.
I am still adjusting to the West Coast and Vegas, but the Ombuds Office at 51ԹϺ was really a perfect position for me because of my background in alternative dispute resolution.
How has your background prepared you for a role in the Ombuds Office?
My professional journey includes pivotal roles in advancing equity and fostering inclusive environments. I have completed specialized certifications, including an Alternative Dispute Resolution Certificate, a Certificate of Mediation and a Certification in Global Human Rights.
As a dedicated advocate, I’ve designed high-impact training programs including topics on cultural competency, trauma informed practices, resilience, and imposter syndrome, conducted in-depth policy research, and facilitated conversations that drive meaningful social change.
What’s interesting about working in mediation and conflict resolution?
What is important and most interesting about ombudsing and working in mediation is learning and maintaining impartiality. There is a strength in being able to do that.
Is this work that you’ve always wanted to do or is it a stepping stone into something you’d like to do in the future?
This work is a stepping stone for my desire to continue to grow in the mediation field. I plan to create my own mediation practice that will include a trauma-informed and meditative approach while also balancing the professional. This is not typical of the mediation practice, but I am hoping to implement it. Additionally, I hope to practice as a civil and human rights attorney well into the future when the opportunity feels right.
What’s a meaningful spot for you on campus?
I would say the garden as it relates to zen, wellness and calm. I would eventually like to bring a yoga mat to a place like that to gain clarity and focus through meditation. That is most connected to who I am.
I also love the murals and art pieces throughout campus. I am very new and still exploring campus, so I hope to find more places on campus I connect with soon.
What do you like to do for fun?
I consider myself a master social connector. As an extrovert, I thrive in social settings that are queer, cultured in many aspects, and promote healthy living. I thoroughly enjoy hot pilates, lifting in the gym, hiking, thrifting, DIY projects, all things artsy, interior and graphic design, and most of all traveling. I also love exploring different coffee shops and Black-owned businesses.
Is there a favorite show you’ve been bingeing lately?
Since I was studying for the bar exam this last year, I have not quite been able to do too many leisure activities. However, I most enjoy watching mysteries, apocalyptic films and shows, and Netflix game shows and challenges.
What’s some of the best personal or professional advice you’ve received?
Some of the best advice I have been given is to prioritize self. If you do not water your own garden, there is no way to provide seeds and nutrients to others to grow and maintain theirs.
One of my favorite quotes that I also live by in my life is by Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I would say that besides my academics, I have always been a fitness advocate for body positivity and wellness. I also teach workout classes that closely align with this work as it is accommodating for all fitness and wellness levels.
What do you think is the best way to maintain a healthy work-life balance?
To know your triggers, have a safety plan that you refer to when you feel overwhelmed or fatigued, and find the things and/or people that reground you. I check in with myself daily, meditate, and identify how my body and mind feels at the end of each week. If there is a sign that you feel overwhelmed by the end of that week, I find a way for the following week to fit in wellness and be intentional about rest and recharging where I can.
