Five women pose for a photo. The two women in the center hold a plaque.
Our People

EERC Recognized for Outstanding Support of Breastfeeding Employees 

The Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) is proud to announce that it has been recognized by the Greater Grand Forks Breastfeeding Coalition and Grand Forks Public Health for its outstanding efforts in supporting breastfeeding employees in the workplace. Representatives from the coalition and health department recently visited the EERC to present a certificate of recognition. 

The EERC established its mother’s room in 2011 as part of a broader commitment to employee wellness and work–life balance. Since then, it has served as a quiet, fully equipped space for employees navigating the transition back to work after welcoming a child. 

Left to right: Mandy Burbank, RD, LRD, CLC, Grand Forks Public Health (GFPH); Nikki Krueger, EERC Communications Director; Betty Otteson, BSN, RN, CLC, GFPH; Sue White, EERC Human Resources Director; Kate Goldade, BSN, RN, CLC, (GFPH).
Photo by Olivia Lacher, EERC

“We’re honored to receive this recognition,” said Sue White, Director of Human Resources at the EERC. “Creating a workplace where all employees feel supported, especially during significant life transitions like becoming a parent, is a priority for us. The mother’s room is one way we’re helping to make that happen.” 

For many employees, this simple but meaningful space has made a major difference. 

“As a new mom returning to work, having access to the mother’s room gave me peace of mind and helped ease my transition back to the workplace,” said EERC Senior Administrative Assistant Heather Altepeter. “It made me feel valued as both a professional and a parent. I’m proud to work at a place that supports families in this way.” 

The EERC extends its thanks to Grand Forks Public Health and the Greater Grand Forks Breastfeeding Coalition for this recognition and for their ongoing advocacy for family-friendly workplace policies across the region. 

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