Women Who Inspire Wednesday: Randi Breager
Written by Program Coordinator, Chris Schnell
This week’s Women Who Inspire Wednesday spotlight features Randi Breager, a powerhouse of insight, resilience, and fierce commitment to systems change and survivor advocacy.
Born in Anchorage and raised in a small Texas town, Randi’s early life was shaped by strong family values, community care, and cultural diversity. Her childhood was marked by responsibilities that far exceeded her years. Yet she found safety, encouragement, and hope in the classroom. School became her sanctuary. It was the one place where teachers became lifelines. Two in particular were her former English teacher and guidance counselor Diana Hedstrom and history teacher Tom Klaameyer left enduring marks on her future. Their belief in her paved the way to college, an opportunity she hadn’t even considered due to cost. With scholarships and grit, Randi earned dual bachelor’s degrees in psychology and sociology. She then went on to earn a master’s in public administration with a focus on criminal justice.
Though she once had her sights set on federal law enforcement, it was her practicum at AWAIC (Abused Women’s Aid in Crisis) that changed her course. What began as a college requirement became a career-defining experience. It awakened her passion for victim advocacy, policy change, and organizational leadership. She went on to hold multiple roles within the Department of Public Safety. Later, she returned to AWAIC, where she now serves as Executive Director.
Randi speaks with fierce clarity about the need for survivor-centered, forward-thinking approaches in the domestic violence field. She is currently focused on evaluating AWAIC’s service models and bringing in best practices that honor both historical context and the need for innovation. She is also deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of changemakers.
When asked about advice she’d give to others looking to follow in her footsteps, Randi doesn’t hesitate. “If it doesn’t feel like a calling, don’t do it. This work is an honor, but it’s not where you come to heal yourself. The people we serve deserve more than that.”
She also reminds us that one of the most powerful things anyone can do is simple. “Choose kindness. Assume every interaction has the power to change someone’s day. It does.”
Randi’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up, doing the work, and never losing sight of your values. Her journey, grounded in humility and purpose, continues to ripple across our community.
Quote that guides her:
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou