With over 20 years of farming experience across the country—from upstate New York and Colorado to California—Janvier (Jan) Velilla brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to sustainable agriculture and community engagement. 

A Lifelong Journey in Farming

Jan discovered her love for farming as an intern at Denver Urban Gardens, a community garden program in Colorado supporting low-income families. She found meaning in the hard work and the feeling of connection to the earth. Her hands-on experience spans a variety of farm sizes, from small two-acre farms to vast 450-acre operations. Most recently, Jan was a farm manager at Full Belly Farm, where she dedicated 12 years to creating vibrant, sustainable agriculture.

Farms are kind of my art

Her extensive experience has given her unique insight into many different farming techniques, which she hopes to bring to the Student Farm. “I really enjoy creating beautiful spaces with flowers and vegetables,” Jan says. “Farms are kind of my art.” For Jan, farming is more than a job—it’s a lifestyle and a way to inspire others.

Sustainability and Hard Work

For Jan, farming is about much more than production. She believes that it’s a way to connect with something larger than ourselves, a responsibility we hold toward the earth and future generations. One of her immediate observations at the farm is the strong community spirit. Jan sees this as a crucial component of sustainability, emphasizing that the energy and dedication of students and staff are what will keep the farm thriving.

While she recognizes the importance of efficient production, Jan is equally focused on fostering a community-centered approach to agriculture. “Our bottom line here isn’t profit—it’s education, community, and learning,” she explains. She is also keen to introduce practices she has learned over the years, such as no-till and reduced-tillage methods, to enhance soil health and sustainable growth.

Embracing Innovation and Inclusivity

Jan believes that farming in the 21st century requires both hands-on work and innovative approaches. She envisions a farm where students from all backgrounds can contribute, whether they're interested in fieldwork, technology, writing, or even accounting. “Farming is so much more than just planting and harvesting,” Jan notes. “It’s finance, business, communication, and community engagement. There’s a place here for everyone.” By fostering a collaborative environment that brings together diverse skill sets, Jan hopes to create a holistic farm experience that prepares students for all aspects of sustainable agriculture.