Amy believes that strong communities are built through collaboration, creative problem-solving, and investment in the places people call home. As Senior Community Development Officer for Housing at Island Institute, she works with Maine’s island and coastal communities to develop housing solutions that support thriving year-round communities.

Amy brings nearly two decades of experience in housing, community development, and organizational leadership. She spent almost ten years with the City of Portland managing the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, where she partnered with municipalities, nonprofits, developers, and residents to invest in affordable housing, neighborhood revitalization, economic development, and public infrastructure. Throughout her career, she has worked to bring people together around complex community challenges, helping organizations build partnerships, secure funding, and move ideas into action.

Most recently, Amy served as Executive Director of Discover Downtown Westbrook, where she led the organization’s strategic growth through downtown revitalization, business development, placemaking, and community engagement. She also founded Grommes Pulaski Consulting, working with nonprofits, municipalities, and regional organizations on strategic planning, facilitation, organizational development, and grant strategy.

Amy holds master’s degrees in Community and Economic Development and Architectural Engineering with a concentration in sustainability and recently completed the University of Oxford’s Climate Solutions and Strategies Programme. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring Maine’s coast and mountains, traveling, and spending time outdoors with her family.