Central ND News

Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer have announced the return of Heather Ranck as the Director of the National Rural Export Center. Her reinstatement is the result of collaboration with the new administration at the Department of Commerce, aiming to accelerate the center's mission. The focus is on customized market research for rural U.S. companies, assisting them in identifying suitable export markets.

“Heather has dedicated her career to helping support farmers, ranchers and manufacturers in North Dakota and across the country as they navigate global markets,” stated Hoeven. Ranck's extensive experience, including two decades at the Department of Commerce, is highlighted as essential for aiding producers in expanding market opportunities.

Cramer emphasized Ranck's return: “Heather’s reinstatement sends a strong message that President Trump values rural exporters and companies looking to sell their goods and services beyond our borders. The Rural Export Center is a critical asset in finding new market opportunities for small, medium size and large companies throughout rural America, and Heather has been the driving force in its success from the beginning.”

Perrie Schafer, Chairman of the North Dakota District Export Council, expressed appreciation for Ranck's return. “As Chairman of the North Dakota District Export Council (DEC), we are extremely pleased and appreciative that we have Heather Ranck back as Director of the National Rural Export Center. Heather is a proven leader and has served the Rural Export Center as its director in the past with great outcomes and great care for the export communities," he stated. The collaboration between the councils and Ranck is anticipated to continue with positive results, with acknowledgment also given to Senators Hoeven and Cramer for their role in the reinstatement process.