Randi McDermott

Randi McDermott

Randi McDermott has spent the last 25 years working in public higher education in Idaho. She began her career at the Idaho State Board of Education, initially in grants administration, but ultimately moved into government relations and policy. During those years, the Board’s oversight extended to all public education in Idaho, K-20, including serving as the governing board for all state colleges and universities plus Idaho Public Television, Professional-Technical Education, and Vocational Rehabilitation among others. Problem solving, public service, leadership and organizational effectiveness are areas of great interest and focus. In 2003, after staffing the search for a new president at Boise State, she accepted a position with newly hired president Bob Kustra as special assistant. She became chief of staff in 2009, further expanding her role collaborating with the leadership team in planning, organizing, guiding and executing the president’s initiatives. In 2018, Randi was appointed Vice President & COO at Boise State University. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in public administration, both from Boise State University. Randi is married to Ed Walker and is a proud Mom to Davis and Ruby. Baxter, Daisy and Lola (spoiled dogs) round out the family. She has enjoyed volunteer opportunities with the Boise City Club, Girl Scouts, North Boise Little League, YMCA, the Idaho Humane Society and Fuzzy Pawz Rescue. In her spare time, she can be found on the sidelines of sporting events, in the audience at concerts, skiing, camping, hiking, reading, and most frequently, walking in the Boise foothills with any dog who wants to come along.