Mark LoParco

Mark S. LoParco has 40 years of food service experience, with 34 years in the college and university market. He is the director of University Dining Services (UDS) at The University of Montana (UM) and the executive director of the UM Food Service Management and Purchasing Consortium. Mark has been an active volunteer serving on numerous committees and elected positions in the National Association of College and University Food Services since 1986. He is a strong supporter of sustainable food systems. In May 2003, UDS and four environmental studies graduate students created Montana Mornings, a celebration of local foods featuring only Montana products. Montana Mornings became the foundation for the UM Farm to College Program. The UM Farm to College Program was one the first — and remains one of the leading — local food purchasing programs in the country. Mark has kept UDS on the forefront of sustainable business practices and was selected to receive his second “Greening UM Award” on Earth Day 2011. He is also the recipient of the “Administrator of the Year Award” bestowed by The Associated Students of the University of Montana. Mark is a graduate of Syracuse University with a degree in food systems management.