MPCC
Two new members were sworn onto the Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors Wednesday evening.
Molly Jeffres, of Ogallala, and Megan McGown, of Brady, both newly elected ran unopposed in the November General Election.
They join nine other members on the board including reelected members Matthew Broz, Kirk Crawley, Ted Klug, Jr. and Kent Miller who are continuing in their service. Among other things, they will be responsible for leading the college through policy creation and initiation and through articulation and evaluation of the college’s scope, mission, values and legislated priorities.
Molly Jeffres
Jeffres replaces Jo Etta Brown, of Ogallala, in representing District 2.
Jeffres is the Community Development Coordinator for Keith County Area Development.
In her role at KCAD she works to enhance economic opportunities and strengthen community connections throughout Keith County fostering growth and collaboration.
Jeffres is an Ogallala native and graduated from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, specializing in management.
With a passion for creative placemaking and sustainable development, she works to shape projects that celebrate the region's cultural and historical assets.
Her community work includes leading the Keith County First Impressions committee and the Western Trails Creative District committee. Jeffres is also co-host of the regional Community Catalyst program.
As a new board member Jeffres said, “I am most looking forward to contributing to the success and growth of Mid-Plains Community College by supporting its mission to provide accessible, high-quality education and opportunities for students.”
Megan McGown
McGown takes over the District 5 seat for Ernie Mehl.
McGown serves as the Chief Development Officer for Great Plains Health.
There she oversees strategic planning, the Health Care Foundation, marketing/public relations, outreach and initiatives to enhance access at consumer entrance points.
In her role, she also leads business development and service line growth efforts, driving the hospital's commitment to meeting the evolving healthcare needs of the region.
McGown, a Nebraska Sandhills native, spent 15 years in community and economic development. Her efforts focused on business recruitment, retention and downtown redevelopment, reflecting her dedication to fostering economic growth and vitality in the region.
She earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Nebraska-Kearney and a graduate degree in organizational management with an emphasis in economic development from Peru State College.
McGown serves as the chair of the North Platte Area Chamber and Development Board of Directors and chairs the North Platte Community Recreation Foundation.
She is eager to contribute to advancing education and opportunity for the area.
“As someone deeply invested in the success of our communities, I look forward to collaborating with my fellow board members to support innovative education and workforce development opportunities that drive growth and create lasting impact for the region,” McGown said.