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About Alaska Women Ascend

Alaska Women Ascend is a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization that provides comprehensive training for progressive women from diverse communities to serve as candidates, staff, and volunteers.

We train women who are pro-choice, pro-LGBTQ rights, pro-union, anti-racist and pro-racial justice.

We accept those who identify as a woman and/or are gender-expansive (e.g., two-spirit, non-binary, gender-fluid, etc.) regardless of sex assigned at birth.

 


A Letter from our Co-Chair

Dear Friend,

If you find yourself asking, like myself and many others, “What can I do? How can I help?”

I want to remind you that Alaska Women Ascend has helped over 400 women across the state get involved and find answers to those questions. Our alumnae are now legislators, mayors, assembly members, board members, community activists, non-profit leaders, and mentors.

When I ran for State House in the rural Interior during 2020, AWA gave me the confidence, knowledge, and network to believe I was going to win! Unfortunately, that was not the case. But that run for office opened doors and developed relationships for me that I could never have imagined.

Due to the support systems and supporters I had while running for office, I was appointed by President Biden to serve as the Alaska State Director for USDA Rural Development. Now, I am serving as the Executive Director of the Alaska Public Interest Research Group.

I am excited to announce that I’ve recently joined AWA as Co-Chair, alongside Suzanne Little, because I’m deeply committed to the cause of encouraging and supporting women leaders in our state.

There are two critical changes that we’re working on this year:

  1. First, we’re moving our training to an in-person event that takes place over a weekend. Now, more than ever, we need to build our community, support one another, and make those genuine connections that can only be formed when we’re in the same space. We’re working on the details and will share more information soon.

  2. When I lost my race in 2020, it wasn’t easy to process. I went from an all-encompassing, full-speed-ahead campaign to not knowing what was next. That support network that was there when I was running wasn’t there after I lost. I want AWA to be that support network for women, so they can process and make plans for what’s next.

Whether you’re ready to run for office, lead an issue campaign, or you’re just trying to answer the question “what can I do,” Alaska Women Ascend will give you the tools, skills, and support to turn intention into action. You don’t need to have it all figured out — you just need to take the first step.

Join us. Add your name to the growing community of AWA alumnae and discover what’s possible when we lead together.

We hope to see you in our next training.

In Solidarity,
Julia Hnilicka


AWA is making a difference!

AWA has trained over 400 women across the state of Alaska and for the first time in Alaskan history, women make up the majority (21) in the Alaska State House of Representatives. Since we started in 2017, of the 10 new women 60% ARE AWA GRADUATES!!

 

SUPPORT AWA

AWA is an entirely volunteer-driven organization, and since 2017, we have trained hundreds of Alaska women to run for office and support those who run. This work has all been possible because of the generous contributions of our supporters. Please consider making a donation today.


AWA has been a transformative force in Alaska’s political landscape, empowering women to step into leadership roles and shaping a more inclusive future for our state. By equipping women with the tools and confidence they need, we’re seeing the incredible impact they can have in creating a government that truly represents all Alaskans.
— Kay Brown, former State Rep and Founding Member of AWA

 

About the Training

 

Big news! AWA is switching up our format. We are moving to a weekend training that will allow more time for face-to-face networking with the cohort and with past alumnae. More details are coming soon!!

This training program designed for progressive women of all ages who are interested in learning more about running for public office, managing a campaign, or being a campaign treasurer. You don’t have to have any experience in politics. If you’re ready to get involved in your community, this is a great place to start.

The application process is open throughout the year.

More details are coming soon. If you’re interested in applying for the 2025 cohort, email amber@amberleestrategies.com.

 
 

WHERE ARE WE NOW?

WOMEN MAKE UP 28%
OF CONGRESS

WOMEN MAKE UP 32.43%
OF STATE LEGISLATORS
ACROSS THE UNITED STATES