WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven today congratulated former governor and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Ed Schafer, whose official portrait was unveiled today at USDA headquarters during a ceremony honoring the North Dakotan’s service to the nation.

Schafer was the 29th U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, and served during the final year of the George W. Bush administration. He also served as governor of North Dakota between 1992 and 2000.

Schafer was introduced by former North Dakota First Lady Nancy Schafer, and current Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack gave remarks. Former colleagues at the agency, including former Acting and Deputy Secretary Chuck Conner, provided tributes to the former secretary and governor. The ceremony took place on the USDA Whitten Building Patio.

“Ed Schafer served both North Dakota and the country with his trademark energy and enthusiasm,” Hoeven said. “This portrait will memorialize his dedication and service to our state and nation. We are all very proud of this native son of North Dakota”