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New Executive Director at National Center for START Services®

New Executive Director at National Center for START Services®

August 26, 2025

Julie Lago, MSW, LICSW began her role this month as the new Executive Director of the National Center for START Services® (NCSS) at the Institute on Disability (IOD) at the University of New Hampshire.

A dedicated social worker and leader with nearly 25 years of experience in the disability field, Lago brings deep expertise in clinically informed program development. In her new role, Lago will lead a team of approximately 40 NCSS staff in advancing their mission to improve care for people with intellectual/developmental disabilities and mental health needs (IDD-MH) and their families through fidelity to the START model.

The START model (Systemic, Therapeutic, Assessment, Resources, and Treatment) is an evidence-based, community crisis prevention and intervention service model for individuals aged 6 and older with IDD-MH. START teams around the country implement the model to build local health care capacity and improve wellbeing for communities.

“The NCSS team has so much to be proud of. The value and impact of the START model across the country has earned a reputation for excellence, one I’m honored to support and help grow,” Lago said. "Joining the IOD has been a longtime dream of mine, as I’ve had tremendous respect for the mission, vision, and the clear dedication of this team for many, many years.”