GRANTS, N.M. – A colorful transformation is sweeping through the streets of Grants, New Mexico, and it’s impossible to miss.
Murals are springing up across the community, one brushstroke at a time, but these projects are more than just art—they're symbols of revitalization, hope, and community. Behind this transformative energy is Denise Hanson, the new Executive Director of Grants MainStreet Project Inc., who has taken the reins with a determination that is equal parts bulldog tenacity and collaborative finesse.
Hanson, who has been in her role for just a few months, is no stranger to tackling challenges.
With a storied career in corporate operations and global project management, her resume is impressive enough to make anyone stop and listen. But it’s her heart for community, and her talent for bringing people together that’s making the difference in Grants.
“I’ve always had a strong work ethic and drive,” Hanson says, reflecting on her whirlwind start. “But the most important thing I’ve learned is that you can’t do it alone. It’s all about building relationships, listening, and figuring out who you can partner with to make things happen.”
This philosophy has quickly turned into tangible results.
Hanson’s ability to assess opportunities— what she calls “lowhanging fruit”—has brought dormant projects to life. Among these, Grants MainStreet’s mural initiative has become the crown jewel of Grants’ visual transformation.
From the blank walls of local businesses to stunning works of art, Hanson and her team have facilitated a renaissance that is turning heads—and drawing in visitors.
“We had so much already teed up by the board and the previous executive director,” Hanson says. “It was in the red zone but hadn’t quite made it to the end zone. My role was to take a fresh look, identify opportunities, and bring the right people together to make it happen.”
The Mural Initiative: A Catalyst for Change
One of those opportunities came in the form of local artist James Emory, whose talent and vision have played a central role in the mural project. With support from the Walmart SPARK Grant program, MainStreet was able to match funding with businesses eager to beautify their spaces. The result? Eye-catching murals that tell the stories of Grants while bringing new energy to the community.
Hanson recalls her first conversations with Kevin Branum at 1912 Market, a historic downtown property. “He didn’t really have a vision for what he wanted, so we let the artist, James, dream.
The result was something beyond what any of us could have imagined. The community rallied, with donations of materials and funds pouring in.”
The success of these murals has had a ripple effect, inspiring other property owners to commission artwork and even reaching beyond the MainStreet district into the nearby Village of Milan.
Hanson beamed as she talked about how the murals have opened doors for community pride and economic opportunity. “On average, I get two to four calls a week from people interested in murals,” she says. “It’s incredible to see the momentum.”
Partnerships in Action
Denise Hanson’s leadership doesn’t stop at murals. Her knack for collaboration has also sparked partnerships with organizations like the Continental Divide Trail Alliance and local businesses like Diamond G. This fall, the Alliance is helping host a free pancake breakfast and classic car show to celebrate the newest mural. “It’s not just about painting walls,” Hanson explains. “It’s about creating experiences that bring people together.”
Her vision extends to long-term projects, like the Great Blocks initiative, which aims to redesign Santa Fe Avenue with improved sidewalks, lighting, and landscaping. Hanson is already working with New Mexico MainStreet and the city to conduct tree risk assessments and design plans that will ensure sustainability.
“We have to think ahead,” she says. “It’s not just about making things look good now but making sure they last.”
While the mural initiative may be the most physical thing that has happened, Grants Main-Street has already supported and hosted multiple community events, applied for and received a number of community revitalization grants to help improve the look and feel of the Main-Street District.
Involving the Next Generation
For Hanson, the future of Grants lies in its youth.
She’s working to bring high school students into MainStreet initiatives, offering volunteer opportunities in marketing and event planning. By involving them in projects like the annual light parade, Hanson hopes to give the youth a sense of ownership and pride in their community.
“At the MainStreet conference last [month], we talked about how to engage high school students,” Hanson said. “I want to bring their voices into the conversation— not just as participants but as leaders. Whether it’s helping plan the parade or creating marketing materials, these experiences can shape their futures and build a stronger community.”
Hanson’s approach to leadership is rooted in gratitude and recognition. “You can never overappreciate people,” she says. “When volunteers, business owners, or community members feel valued, their energy becomes contagious.”
Her focus on positivity has already begun to shift the narrative in Grants.
“Ten weeks ago, people were coming to me with frustrations about missed opportunities,” she recalled. “Now, they’re walking into my office excited, asking how they can help.”
Family is the Foundation
For all of Hanson’s remarkable achievements, she had to point out the foundation of her success: her family.
Married to her husband of over a decade, Denise describes him as her best friend and unwavering supporter. “He’s always been so supportive,” she says. “I wouldn’t have had the opportunities I’ve had without him and our family dynamic. He’s a dreamer who makes our dreams come true.”
Together, they have raised three children in a blended family, all of whom are now thriving as adults. Her son, stationed at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, is pursuing his master’s degree while serving his land tour, alongside his wife, who is an officer in the Navy’s nuclear engineering program. Her middle daughter, working toward a PhD in family and marriage counseling at Texas Tech, is married to a medical student. The youngest of the three is a fifth-grade teacher, set to marry next year.“ They are three very hardworking, dedicated, and driven individuals,” Denise beams. “We laid a solid foundation, and it’s so rewarding to see them living their lives and making a difference in the world.”
Her children’s accomplishments reflect the values Hanson and her husband instilled: dedication, service, and a commitment to community. Recently, her youngest daughter and her fiancé took time during their fall break to help with Grants’ Fall Festival, a massive event Denise and Main-Street supported. “They drove all the way from Arizona to pitch in,” she says with pride. “It was such a special thing to have them there.”
Despite her busy schedule, Hanson cherishes her family connections. “Our daughter calls me every morning, and she’s the first person I talk to,” she says. “I love hearing her stories about teaching and the lives she’s impacting. Those moments remind me why we do what we do.”
For Hanson, her family is her greatest source of inspiration. “We’ve all faced challenges, but we’ve built something so strong together. Watching my kids become successful, independent, and kind—it makes everything worth it. They’re why I’m so driven, why I want to make a difference. They inspire me every day.”
Her love for her family is not just a personal strength but a driving force behind her work in Grants.
“We did something right,” she says with a smile. “And now, I want to give back to the community and create opportunities for other families to thrive.”