Souris Basin Planning Council has announced the appointment of Briselda Hernandez as executive director, effective June 29. She succeeds Lyndsay Ulrickson, who led the organization for 10 years.   

“We are delighted to welcome Hernandez as the new executive director of Souris Basin Planning Council,” said Tony Pandolfo, SBPC chairman. “Through her work and dedication to the people and communities we serve, Hernandez has emerged as the most qualified to lead the organization in the next phase of its growth and development.” 

“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead SBPC and build on the tremendous momentum it has generated in the last several years,” Hernandez said. “I am excited to work with our exceptional team in this capacity and look forward to serving SBPC’s mission and building meaningful change in our region.” Hernandez joined SBPC in 2014, holding positions as economic development specialist, business development manager and assistant director. She holds a master’s degree in public administration from the University of North Dakota.  

SBPC is a combination of local governments and interested parties from the counties of Bottineau, Burke, McHenry, Mountrail, Pierce, Renville and Ward and MHA Nation. SBPC has focused on developing solutions, supporting communities and allocating resources within the seven-county area for more than 47 years. 

SBPC is currently providing opportunities for community growth through the Souris Basin Community Builder Program, which builds partnerships and collaborations with area nonprofits and communities to develop strategies to better serve the residents of North Dakota. SBPC also offers business financing programs including the Impact Fund, a low interest, flexible financing tool available to promote start-ups and economic growth, development and diversification