The American Red Cross has named Gretchen Hjelmstad as the Executive Director for the Eastern North Dakota/Northwestern Minnesota Chapter. In her role, Hjelmstad is responsible for working with employees, volunteers, and community partners to ensure the Red Cross mission is achieved. She will develop and empower local volunteer leaders, enhance community presence through key media and community partners, cultivate donor relationships, and steward the local Board of Directors.

“I am beyond excited to serve our community in this new capacity,” Hjelmstad said. “Alongside our volunteer workforce, Board of Directors and community partners, I will continue to carry out the mission of the Red Cross locally and hope to inspire others to turn their compassion into action through local non-profit work.”

For the last three years, Hjelmstad has been serving as the Regional Communications Officer and Marketing Director for the Dakotas Region of the Red Cross. She will transition into the role of Executive Director on April 6, 2020.

“Gretchen has shown extraordinary leadership as our Communications Officer and we are happy to see recognition of her hard work,” said Abbie Peterson, Interim CEO for the Dakotas Region of the American Red Cross. “We are pleased that Gretchen’s talents will continue to benefit the Red Cross and are celebrating this move within our organization.”

Carrie Carlson-Guest will hold the position of Communications Officer for the Minnesota-Dakotas Region of the Red Cross.