Dana Peterson Joins Emerging Prairie As Chief Strategy Officer

Emerging Prairie has added Dana Peterson to help lead its pursuit to improve the human condition. Emerging Prairie is a non-profit organization based in Fargo that exists to energized communities.

Dana Peterson joins Emerging Prairie as a member of the executive management team (in collaboration with Emerging Prairie’s CoFounder & CEO, Greg Tehven) and will articulate and implement a strategic vision for Emerging Prairie that focuses on growth. Her work will include overseeing the implementation of the strategic plan; working with existing partners to build new partnerships to grow and sustain the organization; manage special projects; and represent Emerging Prairie at key functions to funders and the media.

Prior to joining Emerging Prairie, Dana served in the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Rural Development and at the Farm Service Agency, with a short-term assignment coordinating several department-wide initiatives. One of those initiatives was to investigate how the department could encourage the adoption of precision agriculture technologies in rural America through its programs and services. 

Dana grew up in North Central Kansas on a diversified crop and livestock farm. She studied Agricultural Economics at Kansas State University where she focused on management and strategy, customer preferences, and the cost of government regulation. Dana started her career advocating for wheat farmers and moved to Washington, D.C., to lead that national association in 2010. She enjoys serving her community and spending time with family and friends. 

Dana is enthusiastic about Emerging Prairie and our region. “After serving in Washington, DC, for a number of years, I look forward to returning to the Great Plains to join the creative people, innovative projects, and ground-breaking programs of Emerging Prairie. The Emerging Digital Academy and Grand Farm are important for agricultural and rural communities as they gain access to high-speed broadband, advanced technologies, and innovative thinking. I look forward to partnering with the community, region, and nation in growing the entrepreneurial spirit and collaboration that is thriving in Fargo.”

CEO Greg Tehven adds insight to Dana’s new role. “As Emerging Prairie continues to grow and evolve, we are grateful that Dana is willing to join our efforts to energize communities. A proven leader that brings experiences from the private sector, non-profit community, and the government. We believe Dana will help us grow, create more impact, and generate transformational value for our partners.”

Dana starts with Emerging Prairie today.