Miles Community College will welcome Mark Peterson and Jeffery Harding as new board members at the May meeting of the MCC Board of Trustees.

Mark Peterson is from Miles City and is employed as Research Leader at USDA-ARS Fort Keogh Livestock & Range Research Laboratory. Dr. Peterson received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Animal Science/Zoology from the University of Hawaii, a Master of Science Degree in Animal Science from the University of Idaho and a PhD in Animal Science from the University of Nebraska. Mark’s occupational experience includes Ruminant Nutrition Extension Specialist at the University of Wyoming, Associate Professor of Range Nutrition at Montana State University, and Professor of Range Nutrition at New Mexico State University.

Dr. Peterson has received the Applied Research Paper Award from the Western Section of the American Society of Animal Science for 2001, 2003, 2008 & 2009. He has also received the Distinguished Service Award (2006) and The Young Scientist Award (1992) from the Western Section of American Society of Animal Science. From Montana State University, Dr. Peterson received the Outstanding Master’s Research – Sigma Xi (1991), Scott Wiley Graduate Student (1991), Top Educator – American Indian Research Opportunity (1991), Teacher of the Year (1991) and Friend of the Student (1986) from the College of Agriculture at Montana State University.

Mark has been married to Polly for 29 years and has two grown daughters, Beth Reynolds from Fort Collins, CO, and Jeni Peterson from Las Cruces, NM. Mark is happy to be on the College Board of Trustees, to support MCC to the best of his ability and to help Miles Community College be the finest community college it can be.

Jeffrey A. Harding is also from Miles City and is the Vice President of Island West Investment Corporation. Jeff is responsible for the management and oversight of real estate investments, the ranching operations of Harding Land and Cattle Company, and long range planning. Mr. Harding received his Bachelor of Science Degree in International Relations from Drake University. For the past 13 years Jeff has been employed in the family real estate investment business.

Mr. Harding is excited to be part of MCC’s bright future. Jeff states, “After a long association with the college, I hope to be part of an increased awareness of this great asset of our community.” Jeff was also the assistant coach for the Lady Pioneers during the 2001-2002 basketball season.

Mr. Harding currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Miles City Chamber of Commerce, the Miles City Area Economic Development Corporation, and Holy Rosary Healthcare Foundation. He has served on the MCC Endowment Board as well as on the Board of Directors for the Town and Country Club.