 A Brainerd woman is the new executive director of the Mid-Minnesota Women's Center. Shannon Wasao will begin her duties on January 3rd. The Mid-Minnesota Women's Center provides safety advocacy, empowerment for abuse victims, and education about abuse for the community. Wasao will lead a staff of 22 and manage two facilities, the Shelter and the Child Safety Center, which are both located in Brainerd. Wasao is a graduate of Little Falls Community High School and has a master of science degree in criminal justice from St. Cloud State University. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.