Donna Hakimian

Donna Hakimian is an educator, human rights advocate, and artist whose work centers on cultivating connection, across cultures, disciplines, and with the natural world. She is thrilled to be joining Growing Healthy Kids as a Garden Educator, where she brings her passion for nature, experiential learning, and community building into vibrant, living classrooms.

Most recently, Donna supported youth empowerment programming as part of Oasis for Girls in San Francisco. Prior to that, she worked in higher education in roles spanning interfaith chaplaincy and residential life. Among the most formative experiences of her professional journey was her time in Washington, D.C., where she served as the Representative for Gender Equality and the Advancement of Women at the U.S. Bahá’í Office of Public Affairs. In this role, she engaged in national policy conversations and coalition building around women’s rights, experiences that continue to shape her commitment to justice, dignity, and collective progress.

Donna’s journey toward environmental education was sparked during her time working at the Boston Nature Center, where she witnessed firsthand the joy and wonder that come when young people connect with nature. Those moments inspired in her a lasting belief that gardens are powerful spaces for healing, growth, and learning.

Donna holds an Ed.M. from Harvard University, an M.A. in Women & Gender Studies from the University of Toronto, and a B.A. from McGill University. Her interdisciplinary background informs her holistic approach to education, one that encourages curiosity and nurtures a sense of belonging. In her free time, Donna enjoys painting, writing, experimenting with new recipes, and exploring hiking trails.