About Our Professors

Our faculty are personally interested in students’ careers!  The instructors are nationally and internationally renowned men and women who are tops in their fields.  Each student is assigned a personal advisor to help him/her select the classes and career path that are most suitable for
him/her.

David Baumbauer, Ph.D., Montana State University, 2019
Director of the Plant Growth Center
Professional interests:  Native plant propagation, season extension technologies, international agricultural issues (especially in Latin America) and apiculture
baumbauer@montana.edu

Mac Burgess, Ph.D. Montana State University , Ecology and Environmental Sciences, 2012
Associate Professor
Towne's Harvest Garden at MSU Hort Farm
 Works with high-value and specialty crops including fruits and vegetables, season extension, and soil quality management.

Claire Luby, Ph.D. University of Wisconsin-Madison , Plant Breeding, 2016
Assistant Professor

Kirsten Ostberg, M.L.A. University of Virginia , Landscape Architecture, 2012
Assistant Professor
My research pursuits are dynamic and multifaceted, reflecting a commitment to innovation and sustainability. A central focus of research lies in exploring innovative teaching practices, through collaborative efforts with horticulture faculty and MSU Facilities. 

Rebekah VanWieren, M.L.A., University of Michigan, 2009
Associate Professor 
Research Interests:  Ecological landscape design in the context of brownfield redevelopment and community design, design and planning of green infrastructure and networks at community and regional scales.
rebekah.vanwieren@montana.edu