ND first lady to attend women's event at White House

On Tuesday, Jan. 16, Helgaas Burgum will share the stage with state and federal leaders during panel discussions on the economy, education, national security and health care — including the nation's opioid crisis, which Helgaas Burgum has made a primary focus to contribute her expertise and experience related to combating addiction.

"It's an honor to be able to contribute on a national level to these important discussions about critical issues facing our country right now," Helgaas Burgum said. "I'm especially encouraged by the discussion on opioids as we strengthen our efforts in North Dakota to eliminate the shame and stigma associated with the disease of addiction."

The panels will feature President Donald Trump's daughter, Ivanka Trump, as well as counselor to the president Kellyanne Conway, Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen, Small Business Administration Administrator Linda McMahon and Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos.

Gov. Doug Burgum last week signed an executive order creating the Office of Recovery Reinvented to promote efforts to eliminate the shame and stigma of addiction and catalyze strategic efforts to strengthen recovery services. Helgaas Burgum will chair the advisory council that oversees the office.