Michael Wayland | The Bay City Times

Dow Chemical Co. Chairman and CEO Andrew Liveris and Dow Corning Corp. President and CEO Stephanie Burns have been named today to a presidential council on exports by U.S. President Barack Obama.

The President’s Export Council includes both business and labor leaders who will offer advice on how to increase U.S. exports and jobs and growth.

"I am proud that Dow Corning is viewed by government officials and the business community as an innovative leader in global business," said Burns, whose term lasts untilNovember 2011. "Collaborating with this diverse, experienced and respected group of individuals will be an honor, but more importantly, will help guide the United States for sustainable economicstrength."

Burns has visited Washington, D.C. numerous times since Obama entered office, including a forum at the White House to discuss jobs and economic growth.

The forum was Burns’ second visit to the White House in 2009. She was invited to meet with Obama in July to discuss jobs and renewable energy in recognition of Dow Corning's commitment to the solar energy field.

Ford Motor Co. President and CEO Alan Mulally is the third corporate executive from a Michigan-based company to be named among a group of 18 appointed to the council.

"To build on the progress we've made so far, I've appointed these accomplished men and women to serve in these important roles," said Obama,at a reception at the White House Rose Garden where he announced the council members. "I am confident that their depth of experience in the private sector will be valuable as we continue working toopen new markets for American goods, boost our exports and level the playing field for American workers."

The White House says exports increased 17 percent in the first four months of the year compared with the same period last year.

The announcement of appointments follows a disappointing monthly unemployment report showing that just 83,000 private sector jobs were added in June.
Walt Disney's Robert Iger, Alan Mulally of the Ford Motor Co. and Verizon CEO Ivan Seidenberg are among those Obama is naming to the President's Export Council.

The Associated Press contributed to this article.