Ben joined the New Salem staff in August 2018. He has been married to his wife, Tara, for 22 years. They have four children who attend school in Caledonia: Abigale, Amelia, Isaac, and Ian. Ben has 16 + years of music experience which includes leading music for church as well as directing high school band. Ben and Tara are both graduates of Mississippi University for Women and the University of Southern Mississippi. Ben is self employed and has owned his own business since 2010, Hurt Technology – Consulting & Training. He also has a background as a high school teacher, where he taught Chemistry, Calculus, & was an IT Director.