Cynthia Hall
Dr. Cynthia A. Hall is an accomplished educator and environmental scientist, currently serving as an Assistant Teaching Professor and Farm Demonstration Site Coordinator at Rowan University. She holds a Ph.D. in Geochemistry from Georgia Institute of Technology and a B.S. in Chemistry from Howard University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude with an American Chemical Society certified degree. Her research focuses on soil contamination, lead exposure, and environmental justice—an interest that began when she discovered high lead levels in the soil of her Philadelphia backyard, inspiring her commitment to urban agriculture and community health.
Before joining Rowan University, Cynthia spent over 17 years as an Associate Professor at West Chester University of Pennsylvania, developing expertise in research, teaching, and leadership in environmental science and sustainability. Alongside her academic work, she and her husband, Micaiah, founded Free Haven Farms in Lawnside, NJ. Originally focused on food production, the farm has grown into an educational hub that promotes food access, regenerative practices, and environmental stewardship.
At Rowan University, Cynthia integrates her extensive field experience with classroom instruction, teaching courses in Regenerative Food Systems and sustainability. Her dedication to education, community engagement, and environmental health stems from a lifelong passion for sustainability, nurtured during her formative years at Moorestown Friends School, and continues to shape her impactful work in both academia and urban agriculture.
• Howard University- B.S.
• Georgia Institute of Technology- Ph.D.
• American Chemical Society
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my strong foundation in chemistry from Howard University, my first role at West Chester University, and the opportunity to grow the fresh produce distribution business from a startup to what it is today—an achievement I’m most proud of.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my mother, Patricia Vance-Harris, who taught for 40 years and instilled in me the value of education and perseverance.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to take every opportunity, be intentional, and see your goals through—though it’s male-dominated and you may be doubted, be confident in all you’ve done to prepare. There’s also real economic viability in growing your own food, so don’t be afraid to monetize your skills and build a career.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are education, sustainability, and community—supporting local farmers through initiatives like FISA, promoting safe urban agriculture, teaching regenerative practices at Rowan University, and balancing family and personal wellness.