Stella Hernandez
Executive Director
Stella became the Executive Director of DDW in August of 2026. Since her time studying engineering and architecture at Princeton University, she has cultivated an interest in how public spaces shape community interaction, impact perceptions of safety, and foster connection.
Prior to DDW, Stella ran the Business Hub at the Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center, where she advised entrepreneurs on access to capital and business development, as well as providing business skills training. And, as a small business owner in Portland for 17 years, she brings the lived experience of an entrepreneur to her work in economic development. Stella’s design and business background bring a unique perspective to DDW and its work with residents, the business community, and the city to help Westbrook’s historic Main Street continue to thrive.
Aerin Young
Event & Volunteer Coordinator
Aerin joined DDW in September of 2025 with a strong commitment to community building and placemaking. After earning her Master of Public Administration from the University of Colorado Denver, she returned home to Maine eager to help create spaces that bring people together. Her experience spans event coordination, nonprofit development, grant administration, and local government partnerships, including work with Jefferson County Open Space and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Her cross-sector background enables Aerin to blend community engagement, public space activation, and municipal partnership to strengthen Westbrook’s downtown culture.
At DDW, Aerin spearheads the coordination and promotion of all our 85+ events, engages and manages our dedicated volunteer base, and connects with businesses to support their success. She helps administer grants, partners with other local organizations to maximize impact, and works closely with our Board of Directors and key community stakeholders to collaborate on projects that help the downtown shine. In her free time, you can find Aerin running, gardening, snowboarding, and exploring restaurants throughout Greater Portland.
