STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Italian Cultural Center at Casa Belvedere has announced the appointment of Dawn Daniels as its new executive director.
The move signals an exciting moment in the organization’s continued evolution and its vision for becoming a world-class arts and cultural institution, the Casa Belvedere announcement said.
Casa Belvedere, which means “the house with a beautiful view,” is located at 79 Howard Ave. on Grymes Hill.
With its lavish grounds and rich history, the New York City historic landmark sits on nearly three acres and boasts a spectacular view of the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and the New York City Harbor.
The Italian Cultural Center at Casa Belvedere is devoted to collecting, nurturing and sharing the rich history and culture of Italian-Americans.
In November 2008, Gina Biancardi, founder and president of Casa Belvedere, purchased the mansion with dreams of restoring it to its original splendor while converting it to an arts and cultural center.
Through programs, exhibits and events, the foundation seeks to preserve and promote an appreciation of Italian language, arts, literature, history, fashion, cuisine and commerce.
Culinary, wellness and language programs are some of its offerings. The center also hosts special events and offers college-bound scholarships.
Decades of leadership
Daniels has more than two decades of leadership experience in nonprofit cultural education, program innovation and community engagement. She joins Casa Belvedere following a 20-year tenure at the Noble Maritime Collection at Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, Livingston, where she has served as director of programs since December 2005.
During her tenure, Daniels developed widely respected educational initiatives that served more than 3,000 students annually.
She was particularly well known for creating inclusive and accessible programming, including pioneering work supporting children with autism.
Among her many accomplishments, Daniels authored “Musical Voyage Around the World,” funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, and “Maritime Careers of New York Harbor,” which was featured in the Metropolitan section of The New York Times in July 2022. She also played a significant role in institutional development efforts, securing critical funding to strengthen and expand museum programming.
Earlier in her career, Daniels held positions with several prominent cultural organizations, including Snug Harbor Cultural Center and the Staten Island Children’s Museum. She also owned and operated the Forest Haven Center for Dance and Music, where she taught Irish step dancing, reflecting her lifelong dedication to arts education.
Daniels holds a bachelor of arts degree in museum studies and music history from SUNY Empire State University. In addition to her work in cultural leadership, she is an accomplished musician and a member of the traditional music ensemble Avon Faire.
Reflecting on her appointment, Daniels shared that “Italy’s cultural legacy — spanning art, music, science, and cuisine — represents one of the world’s most extraordinary contributions to civilization. I am honored to advance Casa Belvedere’s mission through dynamic, welcoming programs that inspire curiosity, creativity, and connection across generations.”
Biancardi welcomed Daniels’ appointment.
“Dawn Daniels is a remarkable cultural leader whose career reflects exactly the kind of vision, creativity, and community-centered thinking that defines Casa Belvedere’s future,’’ Biancardi said. ”Her depth of experience, passion for arts education, and commitment to accessibility make her an extraordinary addition to our institution.”
As Casa Belvedere continues its trajectory of growth, Daniels’ leadership will play a pivotal role in guiding us into the next chapter, Biancardi said.
Daniels will lend leadership as the institution continues expanding its educational initiatives, strengthening partnerships and enhancing its role as a cultural destination where heritage, arts, and community converge, the cultural center’s announcement said.