The North Dakota Wheat Commission (NDWC) today announced Haley Hermanson as its new Communications and Marketing Specialist, effective December 1, 2025. Hermanson brings a decade of experience in marketing and communications from the banking and software development sectors to the NDWC, where she will focus on enhancing producer and buyer outreach, communications, and brand strategy.
A lifelong resident of Fargo, ND, Hermanson is a graduate of North Dakota State University (NDSU) with a degree in Psychology. Her strong local roots and deep marketing background will be instrumental in connecting the NDWC’s mission with its key stakeholders.
“As a lifelong North Dakotan, I’m excited to join the North Dakota Wheat Commission and lend my experience to promoting an industry that is so critical to our local economy,” said Hermanson. “I believe we have an incredible story to tell about the quality and research impact North Dakota wheat has, and I can’t wait to help share it.”
Executive Director Jim Peterson expressed his enthusiasm for the newest addition to the team: “Haley brings a fresh energy and a wealth of experience that will be an invaluable asset as we continue to grow our communications efforts. Her background and broad communication skills will directly benefit our producers, by enhancing our messaging with consumers and buyers, and help us drive the important work we do forward.”
Hermanson resides in Fargo with her husband and family.
The addition of Hermanson follows recent appointments within the Commission’s leadership team. Jim Peterson, a nearly 40-year veteran of the Wheat Commission, was appointed as the Executive Director by the Board of Commissioners following long time Administrator, Neal Fisher’s, retirement in July. Additionally, Erica Olson, who has been with the Commission since 2006, was promoted to Director of Market Development and Research. These appointments and the addition of the new Communications and Marketing Specialist reinforce the NDWC’s commitment to strong leadership and expanding its essential work in research, promotion, and education for North Dakota wheat producers.
About the North Dakota Wheat Commission
The North Dakota Wheat Commission works to expand use of wheat grown by North Dakota farmers by creating worldwide market opportunities by maintaining and expanding overseas and domestic markets, promoting the health benefits of wheat foods, funding varietal development and other research efforts, and influencing domestic and trade policy efforts. Wheat producers fund these programs with a checkoff of two cents on each bushel sold.
The North Dakota Wheat Commission is directed through a grassroots approach. Producers meet at the county level to elect representatives, who in turn elect six district commissioners. The governor appoints a seventh commissioner from a list of nominees submitted by major farm and grower organizations. These seven producers make up the board of commissioners. They develop policy and programs, oversee their implementation and approve budget expenditures. Commissioners can serve no more than three four-year terms. Five employees administer programs and activities.
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North Dakota Wheat Commission
