New Summit Presbyterian Church

Matt Starr grew up in Independence, Missouri. His love for nature and his interest in Jacques Cousteau growing up is what led him initially to explore becoming a marine biologist. He began his career in the insurance industry, however, after receiving 3 job offers in one day! Matt is employed as an underwriter at Hanover Insurance in Overland Park, Kansas. He works with marine insurance in the area of transit and insurance classification, insuring such things as cargo insurance, construction equipment, buildings under construction and high-value fine arts. As an underwriting professional, Matt has earned the following insurance designations: AMIM (Associate in Marine Insurance Management) and CPCU (Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter).

Matt is married to Terry and they have 2 children. Russell is employed by Cerner Corporation working in their computer network department and is married to Aimee. In addition to attending college, Aimee also has a photography business. Sarah is currently attending Avila University to become an Art Therapist. Matt's hobbies include art, building websites and sports. Matt is a very gifted artist. "Growing up I drew everything I saw, even as a teenager." He has done several projects for New Summit, including for the Environment Team as well as for Children's Ministry during Vacation Bible School. His sister-in-law is the one who inspired him to paint as well. Matt does an amazing job with his art. I am in awe every time I see a piece of his work!

Matt credits Russell for sparking his interest in building websites. This hobby has enabled him to help several different ministries as well, including our Vacation Bible School, People Helping People, Celebrate Sacrifice, and a local choral group. In addition, Matt has combined his interest in building websites with his passion for sports. Check out Matt's incredible website "All Starr Sports Zone" at http://allstarrsports.isgreat.org/. He has even had local groups such as the Kansas City Sports Commission and Foundation contact him after they found his website. Matt's favorite sport is baseball because of the strategy involved in playing the game. "Baseball is like a chess game. You can sit and talk about it while you watch." Matt would like to teach others what he has learned from his hobbies. "So much of what it involves I have done by judgment or by experience and not from a book."