Jennifer Hawkins recently stepped into her role as Avesta Housing’s new President & CEO. As she gets to know the organization and the region, we took a moment to ask her a few questions about her early impressions, what fuels her commitment to this work, and why she chose to make Avesta her next professional home.

The early days in a new role are often both energizing and demanding. How have you spent your first couple of weeks, and what have you discovered so far?
These first couple of weeks have been filled with energy, discovery, and connection. I’ve had the privilege of meeting more than 100 Avesta staff members—at lunches, on property tours, and through virtual conversations. Their passion for the mission and the pride they take in their work is inspiring. I also visited several properties across Maine and New Hampshire, attended a summer celebration with residents in South Portland, and participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for our innovative new homeownership initiative, “A Path Forward.” What is evident is what many already know: Avesta is a deeply mission-driven, forward-thinking organization with extraordinary people at every level.

You’ve worked in many areas of affordable housing over the years—including property management, resident services, real estate development, and executive leadership. What generates your passion for this work, and how will you carry that with you in your role at Avesta?
What drives me is the transformational power of housing—not just as a physical structure, but as a foundation for health, opportunity, and dignity. Over the past two decades, I’ve seen firsthand how access to safe, healthy, and affordable housing can change the trajectory of someone’s life. That’s what keeps me motivated. I’m excited to bring that perspective to Avesta, an organization with the scale, sophistication, and heart to meet the diverse housing needs of communities across Northern New England. My focus is on amplifying this impact—through strategic growth, community partnerships, and a continued commitment to inclusive, resident-centered development.

Joining a new organization is a big decision, especially when it involves relocating to another state. What was it about Avesta that made it the right place for this next chapter in your career?
Avesta stood out to me as a rare combination of mission, integrity, and capacity. It’s an organization that not only builds and manages high-quality housing, but does so with a deep understanding of community needs—from supportive housing for individuals who have experienced homelessness, to assisted living for older adults, to homeownership opportunities for working families. After an extensive national search, I felt deeply aligned with Avesta’s values and vision. I was drawn to the opportunity to lead a highly respected organization at a pivotal time, and to work alongside a talented team and dedicated board to expand our reach and deepen our impact across the region.