Heidi Marston takes the helm at AWS in January 2026, as the organization’s fourth executive director in its near 60-year history. Heidi’s unwavering commitment to the dignity and well-being of all animals, along with her experience in public service and community-building will provide steady leadership as AWS advances its mission to serve as a safety net for homeless pets and offer resources to keep pets and families together.
Most recently, Heidi served as the Director of Pet Placement Initiatives for PetSmart Charities. In this role, she led a team charged with managing an $18M+ grant portfolio aimed at supporting the work of shelter and rescue partners across North America. Prior to PetSmart Charities, Marston spent her career in local and federal government, including as Chief Executive Officer of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, the largest homeless response system in the country, Director of Community Engagement & Reintegration at VA’s Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System and Special Assistant to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
“Working with and alongside people experiencing homelessness, veterans and countless animal shelters across the country has crystalized to me the importance of the human-animal bond. Regardless of socio-economic situations and background, pets become a part of our family – no one should have to choose between their animal companion and shelter or food. I am honored to be joining the AWS team to help carry forward the organization’s legacy while finding ways to serve animals in Maine, as well as the people who love them.” -Heidi Marston
A lifelong learner, Heidi holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. She is a long-time foster pet parent, shelter volunteer and advocate in the animal well-being community. She currently serves on the boards of My Dog is My Home and Shelter Animals Count. She was born and raised in Minnesota and has called Washington, DC, Los Angeles, CA, and Phoenix, AZ, home. Along with her partner and their two loving, extra-needs rescue dogs, Heidi is eager to call Maine home.
