Directors

Nolan Ojeda is a graduate from New Mexico State University, Mechanical Engineering Dept. He spent the beginning of his career as a program and project manager for the Department of Defense. After returning to New Mexico, he and his wife bought 5 acres just outside of Alamogordo, NM. There they’re raising two boys along with chickens and pigs. They opened a shop downtown that showcased handmade, homemade, and homegrown products of the Tularosa Basin. After being asked to apply for the position, Nolan was hired in April of 2022. Since being hired, Nolan has worked hard to ensure that upcoming large scale projects will be effectively executed but primarily he is just grateful for the opportunity to have an active role in the betterment of his community. 

(575) 446-3612, director@alamogordomainstreet.org

Shawna Brown has spent over a decade in the nonprofit world, blending leadership, strategic planning, and community engagement in New Mexico. Shawna has worked with the DowntownAbq Mainstreet and Arts & Culture District (DAMI) in a few capacities including Downtown Growers’ Market Manager and DAMI Associate Director. In these roles Shawna implemented strategies to achieve key organizational goals, managed vendor relations for over 200 farmers and artists, and created pathways for new and diverse vendors to join the mix. Shawna also brought new ideas to DAMI including the Community Resource Booth, addressing food insecurity for individuals experiencing homelessness.

As Deputy Director of the New Mexico Black Leadership Council Shawna supported strategic planning and implementation efforts, special projects management (with an emphasis on arts-based community development), and staff training / development. As Chief Communications Officer and Community Relations Manager at the Verdes Foundation, Shawna established marketing strategies, built strong media & business relationships, and fostered philanthropic programs benefiting cultural organizations, agriculture, and the arts.

Shawna approaches every project with creativity, a problem-solving mindset, and an attitude of possibility, focusing on solutions and collaboration to bring meaningful initiatives to life. When not working, Shawna spends time leading The Syndicate ABQ, hanging out downtown, practicing Spanish, and resting. 

(505) 302-5623 (text preferred), shawna@abqmainstreet.org

I wear many hats: wife, mom, entrepreneur, travel enthusiast, interior design wannabe, manifesting generator, and now, Artesia MainStreet Executive Director. The list goes on and on because heck, I’m a Gemini too and if you’ve met any of those you know what I’m talking about…

Although I’m not a native New Mexican, the “land of entrapment” has stolen my heart. You can find my family and me adventuring through all the majestic landscapes New Mexico has to offer. We love hiking, camping, and exploring new places. I have a spirit for living large in a small town and a passion for helping businesses exceed expectations. I’m excited to bring an entrepreneurial spirit to MainStreet and I’m really looking forward to building relationships with merchants. I also really value fun! I cannot wait to dig in to all the great events and activities our MainStreet offers.

(575) 703-0841, mainstreet@pvtn.net

(505) 600-1665, info@barelas.net

Rhona Espinoza has been serving as the Executive Director of Belen Main Street Partnership for nine years. She also serves as the Executive Director of the Greater Valencia County Chamber of Commerce. A native of Belen, she loves her community and the work she does in Belen Main Street Partnership. A proud fact that Rhona likes to share with people is that she lives on land from a Spanish land grant from her family that came in 1767 from Estremadura Spain.

(505) 864-8091, info@belenmainstreetpartnership.org

Kat Davis is the Executive Director for Carlsbad MainStreet/Arts & Cultural District. She started this work in 2020 as the Director for Carlsbad’s Pearl of the Pecos ACD and at the beginning of 2022 the MainStreet board merged these positions into one. Kat was named one of her communities “40 under 40 recipients” in 2021 from the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce. Originally born and raised in Ireland, Kat has a diverse background that drives her passion to make her community a better place through many different service organizations, volunteering, and her work through Carlsbad MainStreet. Outside of work she is passionate about nature, music, the environment, traveling and her pug named Frank.

(575) 628-3768, carlsbadmainstreet@gmail.com

Lynette Keeth was born and raised in Clayton, New Mexico. With over 20 years of banking experience, she joined CUCEDP in July of 2022 as the Executive Director. Lynette is self-motivated individual who has a diverse skill set that she’s acquired both in a professional setting and from community involvement activities. Lynette has a passion for her community, local businesses, and small-town traditions. She has a strong desire to see the community of Clayton and Union County prosper. Lynette has been a business owner herself since 2005. In addition to her role as ED, she is the Clayton High School cheer coach, and currently holds two state championship titles. In her spare time, she loves camping and spending time with her family and friends.

(575) 207-9804, cucedp@unionnm.us

(602) 791-1400, clovismainstreet@gmail.com

A proud HillTopper and graduate of Los Alamos High School, Angela is a home-grown New Mexican. Post high school, she attended the University of Arkansas Little Rock on a Division-One soccer scholarship. Earning a Bachelor of Arts in Human Communication Theory and Marketing, her career experience highlights sales, problem-solving, and work in the world of philanthropy. She lives in Corrales, where she and her husband are raising their children and contributing to the vitality of the village through a family-owned business. Angela joined Corrales MainStreet as a board member in 2020 and transitioned to the Executive Director position in July of 2021. She joined the organization because she believes strongly in community service and the value of volunteering.

(505) 350-3955, visitcorrales@gmail.com

(575) 546-2674, ed@demingms.org

Karen Lupton is the Downtown Coordinator for Farmington MainStreet. Having lived in New Mexico for the past 23 years, she has worked in financial services and small business consulting and now brings those skills to her current position as the Coordinator of Farmington’s MainStreet. Karen is also an active board member of the River Reach Foundation which works to promote, enhance & protect the rivers and trail system in and around Farmington.

(505) 599-8459, klupton@farmingtonnm.gov

Michael Bulloch, former executive director for Downtown Farmington: A MainStreet Project and The HeART of Farmington Arts & Cultural District, is an award-winning artist and teacher. Two of his true passions are historic preservation and economic development. He has over 20 years of experience working with MainStreet.

(505) 879-0366, director@gallupmainstreet.org

Denise Hanson is Grants MainStreet’s new Executive Director, bringing with her more than 30 years of experience in finance, operations, customer experience, and success. She’s also El Morro Arts Council’s current President. She recently joined Grants MainStreet to pursue her passions of driving positive change, communication, collaboration, revitalization, and driving economic development within the MainStreet District.

(602) 574-0588, grantsmainstreet66@gmail.com

After focusing on her studies on the language of female punk performance, Susan graduated with a MA in English Literature from West Texas A&M University. Over the next ten years, Susan shared her passion for the arts as a dedicated English and Humanities faculty member at a community college in Texas where she also held several administrative titles. Wishing to redefine how she served her community, Susan was accepted as a Master of Public Administration candidate to the University of Texas at El Paso and moved to Las Cruces in 2018. During her time in the MPA program, Susan had the opportunity to develop her research, data analysis, and technical writing skills as the department research assistant.  After her first class, she discovered a passion for nonprofit administration, and in her final semester of coursework, she was granted an internship at Downtown Las Cruces Partnership (DLCP). After completing her internship, Susan accepted the position as the Community Coordinator, managing projects for DLCP and the Arts and Cultural District.  In December 2019, Susan graduated as the outstanding student of her class with the program’s first ever MPA degree with a concentration in nonprofit management and governance.

Since Susan and her rescue dog, Gus, relocated to New Mexico, she has fallen in love with the people, culture, and community of Las Cruces. In her time away from the office, Susan enjoys knitting poorly, running slowly, and spending time with her partner, Rob.

(575) 525-1955, director@dlcp.org

Makahla grew up in Las Vegas and Manuelitas, NM. She was born to a rowdy bunch of archeologists, artists, writers, and entrepreneurs with her two sisters. Makahla attended the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque majoring in theatre and English. Afterward, she traveled the country with only a backpack, her thumb, and the need to see the world. Makahla moved to Portland, OR where she found her family and had her son Benjamin.

Missing home and the New Mexican sky, she moved back to New Mexico in 2015. She attended CNM’s film program and after a lucky chance, spent 6 years in the Film and Television Industry working in numerous areas including Sustainability, Locations, and Production Design. When the fires of 2022 came to her hometown, she knew she wanted to come back and help the little town she came from.

(505) 617-6800, mainstreetlasvegasnewmexico@gmail.com

(575) 654-6120, leapintolordsburg@gmail.com

Jacquelyn works for Los Alamos Commerce and Development Corporation as the Executive Director of MainStreet and Creative District. Los Alamos Mainstreet is a state-accredited New Mexico MainStreet program whose mission is to revitalize and diversify the local economy and downtown business district in both Los Alamos and White Rock, as well as preserve cultural and historic resources. The Creative District is a strategy to capitalize on and advance the expansion of the creative economy.

Hailing from Denver, she previously worked as a curator for the Denver International Airport Art Program and the Emmanuel Gallery at the University of Colorado at Denver. Prior to that, she worked as a public art administrator for Creative Colorado (Colorado’s State Arts Agency) and the City of Denver. Through her business as an independent arts and project management consultant, Jacquelyn’s experience as an arts administrator brought together artists, the community, businesses, and local government. Organizing events, exhibitions, and public art projects are her specialty.

After relocating to Los Alamos in 2018 with her husband and three children, Connolly joined several boards and organizations to learn more about the community and get involved locally. Currently, she is a member of the Art in Public Places Board for Los Alamos, 505 Swing, and part of the 2023 Los Alamos Leadership Class.

When not working she can be found hiking and camping with her family, reading, or swing dancing!

(505) 661-4844, jacquelyn@losalamos.org

Johanna Muruato was born in Mesa, Arizona and has spent the majority of her life living in Lovington, her home. Johanna graduated from New Mexico Connections Academy, an online public school, at the age of 17 which provided her with a unique educational experience and prepared her for the next chapter of life.

In 2019, Johanna took her first steps into the workforce by joining the Lovington Chamber of Commerce as the Director’s Assistant. This opportunity sparked her passion for community work and allowed her to immerse herself in the local culture. Working closely with small businesses, she grew to understand the significance of non-profit organizations which gave her a deeper appreciation for how integral they are to the community’s well-being. Johanna volunteered extensively during this time, supporting events like Smokin’ on the Plaza with Mara Salcido, Lovington Mainstreet’s former Director. These experiences allowed her to forge meaningful connections and helped her realize how much she loves being involved in Lovington’s growth and development.

As she continued her education, Johanna pursued an Associate’s Degree in Science from New Mexico Junior College, graduating in 2022. Seeking to further her knowledge and career prospects, she transferred to New Mexico State University to work towards a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing. Alongside her academic journey, she’s had the privilege of working with Lovington Mainstreet since February 2024, an opportunity that has given her valuable insight into Lovington’s downtown district preservation and cultural and historical identity revitalization.

She’s excited about the future and looking forward to working with the Lovington community as it continues to grow and evolve. There’s so much potential, and she’s eager to contribute to the town’s development and success.

(575) 396-1418, director@lovingtonmainstreet.org

Mora MainStreet / Arts and Cultural Compound has provided me with the opportunity to input my skills of empowering and promoting creative community-based efforts, while preserving the distinctiveness of the local community. My experience as a translator and cultural consultant for many years managing businesses led me to decide I wanted to devote the balance of my career to developing and sustaining creative community organizations. Therefore, in 2021, I went back to school to undertake a MA in Arts Administration from the University of Wisconsin. As part of the master’s program, I worked at the Wisconsin Arts Board, resulting in hands-on experience on the ways to identify, cultivate, solicit, and steward fundraising efforts. I look forward to providing ideas in support of Mora Main Street’s vision and future creative sustainable projects.

(608) 286-0540, mainstreetmora@gmail.com

Valerie is an Albuquerque native. After spending a few years abroad, she found her way back to Albuquerque and ultimately back to her favorite neighborhood, Nob Hill. Valerie studied Fine Arts and Graphic Design in college which led to her doing design work for Nob Hill MainStreet. When the pandemic hit, Valerie moved into the role of Executive Director. She strives to make Nob Hill the best it can be, not only because it’s where she lives, works and plays, but because of the unique attributes that it lends to the city of Albuquerque. 

(505) 331-1934, val.mae1987@gmail.com

Brenda Ferri is the Executive Director for Raton MainStreet/ACD and has been for 8 years.  She loves her job, her board and most importantly her community.  She is always willing to help fellow ED’s around the state, so please don’t hesitate to reach out.

(575) 445-2052, bferri@ratonmainstreet.org

Prior to becoming the Executive Director of MainStreet Roswell, I worked as a Director of Marketing & Community Relations for a medical business that is located in the heart of downtown Roswell. My desk was set in a large picture window facing Main Street where I watched the incredible New Mexico seasons come and go. I enjoyed watching tourists as they walked by wearing alien glasses and tin foil hats. As MainStreet Roswell looked over our downtown, I saw Main Street transformed into a holiday wonderland with lights, Santa hats & ribbons and burst into color with spring flowers. I enjoyed the vendors selling their trinkets and the smell of delicious food all around. I knew I wanted to be a part of this incredible organization. I was welcomed to MainStreet Roswell as a Board member in June of 2021 and in August of 2022 I was hired as the Executive Director of MainStreet Roswell. I have learned so much in the past few months but the most important lesson I learned was the overall role MainStreet organizations play in the growth and revitalization of a community. MainStreet’s role is vital in driving economic development to downtown businesses. The vision of creating updated facades for businesses and comfortable, pleasant and exciting areas for tourists to explore makes me ready to move on with MainStreet Roswell’s Master plan for the future.

(575) 914-8017, ed@mainstreetroswell.org

Tim Duckworth grew up in Texas and never thought he’d want to leave – that is until he started visiting Ruidoso about 14 years ago. After moving his daughter to college at the University of Arkansas, he moved his family to the lovely Village of Ruidoso. Now he can’t imagine living anywhere else.

Tim comes to RMA with many years of experience in customer relations and project management. He’s looking forward to utilizing these skills to bring fun activities and economic growth to Ruidoso Midtown, and beyond.

(214) 773-2743, ruidosomidtownassociation@gmail.com

Adrian N. Carver is Revitalize San Pedro Partnership’s first-ever Executive Director!

Adrian is a social impact practitioner with over 20 years of experience across private, nonprofit, and public sectors. Adrian specializes in mobilizing people, processes, and policy to create lasting social change. Known for his advocacy work in expanding civil rights protections and community development, he has received numerous accolades, including the National Service Alumni Award from Governor Susana Martinez and New Mexico’s Top 40 Under Forty. Recently, Mayor Tim Keller appointed him to Albuquerque’s Environmental Planning Commission. Adrian is expected to earn a Master of Community & Regional Planning from the University of New Mexico in May 2025.

(505) 615-0879, Adrian@sanpedroabq.org

Chantel is the Guadalupe County Developmental Corporation Executive Director, a University of New Mexico HERO and Santa Rosa Mainstreet Director.

(575) 472-0234, clovato.gcdc@gmail.com

I am thrilled to be part of Silver City MainStreet and the community of New Mexico MainStreet programs! I bring a broad range of nonprofit experience to my new position. Over the course of my career I have focused on community building, advocacy, marketing, communications, and administration. 

I grew up in Upstate New York and have a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Fine Art from Empire State College and several certifications including a certificate in conflict resolution from Cornell University, and a level 1 United States Track & Field coaching certification. I returned to Silver City with my family in December, 2022 after previously living there in 2012 and 2013. During that time I worked for The Commons Center for Food Security and Sustainability and for Silver City MainStreet. 

(575) 534-1700, sharla@silvercitymainstreet.com

Bianca Encinias is the Executive Director of the South Valley MainStreet. Since 2016, she has secured $4.9 million in capital outlay in public infrastructure funding and program development. Bianca completed her Undergraduate Degree in Political Science and History and a Master’s Degree in Community and Regional Planning with distinction. Bianca has over 24 years of work experience in the non-profit sector with an emphasis in community-based and led economic redevelopment that builds community empowerment, develops transparent decision-making processes, skilled facilitator, and strategic planner. Bianca is the business owner of an arts and cultural center in the heart of downtown Albuquerque, laying a foundation for art and creativity led by Nuevamexicanas, since 2010. Bianca’s maternal and paternal ancestors are deeply rooted in Northern New Mexico ranching and farming using traditional practices to sustain the land and access to locally grown food leading to the creation of an urban farm institute in Albuquerque’s South Valley which is part of a statewide agricultural cooperative.

(505) 400-3635, southvalleymainstreet@gmail.com

Charles Whitson is the Executive Director for Taos MainStreet and a nonprofit and business professional with over 20 years of experience. He provides visionary leadership for the revitalization of the Historic Plaza District and works to ensure its an inclusive, vibrant civic space for residents and visitors of all ages. A graduate of UNM and a proud Lobo, he returned to his hometown of Taos in 2018 where he lives with his wife and two children. He is honored to be able to serve his community in his position with Taos MainStreet, as well as on the Parks and Rec Advisory Board, the Destination Stewardship Network, and as a coach in multiple youth sports leagues. He also serves as Treasurer for the New Mexico Coalition of MainStreet Communities to help highlight the important work of MainStreet to the state legislature and strengthen MainStreet programs across the state.

(575) 305-3905, director@taosmainstreet.org

Becca’s work history includes 10 years of teaching in elementary classrooms and at a science school, as well as editing/proofreading/writing for online educational platforms. She has a bachelor’s degree in German and a master’s degree in Elementary Education. She moved to T or C in 2016 after thru-hiking the Continental Divide Trail and worked as a substitute teacher in T or C schools for a few years before becoming a mom and staying at home with her son. She’s stayed active in the community while caring for her kiddo at home for a few years.

She’s one of the organizers of the Truth or Consequences Desert Ultra Trail Race, currently planning their fourth annual event in October 2024. She’s also part of the planning team for the Turtleback Trails Network Concept Plan, and a Board member of the Southern New Mexico Trail Alliance. In her free time, she enjoys doing all kinds of outdoor things with her partner and their four-year-old son. They love to camp, hike, kayak, ride bikes, read, cook and eat good food, and play on playgrounds. Through this position with MainStreet, she’s excited to work more closely with the MainStreet network to help support and promote great things happening in her town!

(575) 208-4093, director@torcmainstreet.org

Connie Loveland is the executive director for Tucumcari MainStreet where she is dedicated to strengthening existing businesses, fostering entrepreneurship, and drawing people to the MainStreet District. Before being appointed Main Street Director, she spent 12 years in the financial industry as a loan processor and was an ICBA Certified Compliance Officer. This background has given her a unique perspective on small business needs. Known for her love of history and photography, Connie is passionate about preserving Tucumcari’s history and heritage.

(575) 461-370, tucmainstreetdirector@gmail.com

Mario worked as an electrician for the Zuni Home Improvement Program and Zuni Housing Authority from 1993 to 2012. He had higher aspirations to serve the Zuni community by assisting with economic sustainability, which led him to pursue an undergraduate education while still working full time and having a family; he earned his BBA in Finance from the University of New Mexico in 2014. He did not intend to pursue further formal education but was encouraged by his family to pursue a graduate degree, and in 2018, he completed a Master of Public Administration program at UNM. He joined the Zuni Pueblo MainStreet Board in 2012 after providing a resume on a 2”x2” Post-It note and served as vice president until December 2018 when asked to serve as interim Director. Hired as Director in March 2019.

(505) 782-7237, director@zunipueblomainstreet.org

Tribe: Zuni (Shiwi)
Zuni Clan Affiliation: Frog clan and child of Parrot