STAFF
The Durham Public Schools Hub Farm is run by a small team of dedicated individuals. Meet our farm team on your next visit to the Hub!
Geoff Seelen, Program Manager
As Program Manager, Geoff leads the Hub Farm’s talented team of educators as they facilitate field trips, build curriculum, host events & workshops, and steward the Hub Farm’s growing spaces, animals, hiking trails, and physical assets. Before coming to the Hub Farm, he previously worked as a middle school teacher for Durham Public Schools, was a part-owner and operator of a small vegetable farm, and spent time in the world of fine-dining. He has always been passionate about project management, system-building, and mentorship. When he is not at work, you will find him fishing, hiking, and spending time with his family. He holds degrees in music from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and McGill University. You can contact him at geoffrey_seelen@dpsnc.net
Hannah Ball-Damberg, Hub Farm Educator
Hannah (she/her/hers) is a native Durhamite and was a student in Durham Public Schools herself, so returning to work in DPS is a huge privilege! Hannah graduated from Oberlin College with a Bachelors degree in Environmental Studies and Geology and a concentration in Environmental Education. Hannah has worked with young people in a variety of roles and settings, including on an urban farm in Harlem, NYC; a local YMCA in Santiago, Chile; and the Green River Preserve camp in the beautiful Appalachian mountains of NC. She also comes with 6 years of vegetable production experience on three farms in the Piedmont area. At the Hub Farm since January 2018, Hannah serves as a Farm Educator, where she manages 30 acres of pollinator and vegetable gardens, trails, and livestock; manages volunteers; leads and coordinates field trips; mentors high school and college interns; and more! When her hands aren’t in the dirt, she enjoys biking, running, exploring new places, hiking with her dog Sadie, cooking for friends, and listening to live music! You can contact her at hannah_balldamberg@dpsnc.net
Justin walker, Hub Farm Educator
Justin, who has always found the natural world to be a source of wonder, excitement, and calm, brings a variety of professional experience to the Hub Farm. He is an outdoor enthusiast and youth advocate who is dedicated to being a supportive guide for all students in the city of Durham. As a former chef, Justin loves to grow, cook, and eat his fruits and vegetables! He is a recent Master of Social Work graduate from North Carolina State University, and, prior to the Hub Farm, he was a Restorative Practices Coordinator for Durham Public Schools. He has experience as a landscaper, a caretaker for adults with disabilities, and he has worked with families and individuals experiencing homelessness in Southern California. Additionally, he has spent time as an outdoor education instructor for youth ages K-8 along the Front Range of Southern Colorado. When he is not at the Hub Farm, Justin is often in his garden, listening to music, making delicious meals for family and friends, camping, climbing mountains, and fishing along the coasts of the Carolinas. His ultimate goal is to work alongside community members, building and fostering meaningful relationships in supportive learning environments designed to improve the standard of youth education, leaving a positive impact along the way. You can contact Justin at justin_walker@dpsnc.net