The Italian Cultural Center at Casa Belvedere proudly announces the appointment of Dawn Daniels as its new Executive Director, signaling an exciting moment in the organization’s continued evolution and its vision for becoming a world-class arts and cultural institution.
Daniels brings more than two decades of leadership experience in nonprofit cultural education, program innovation, and community engagement. She joins Casa Belvedere following a distinguished 20-year tenure at the Noble Maritime Collection at Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, where she served as Director of Programs beginning in December 2005.
During her tenure, Daniels led the development of widely respected educational initiatives serving more than 3,000 students annually. She became especially known for creating inclusive and accessible programming, including pioneering work supporting children on the autism spectrum. 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.”
Gina Biancardi, Founder and President of Casa Belvedere, 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. 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, Dawn’s leadership will play a pivotal role in guiding us into our next chapter.”
Casa Belvedere looks forward to Daniels’ 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.
About the Italian Cultural Center at Casa Belvedere
The Italian Cultural Center at Casa Belvedere is a nonprofit cultural institution dedicated to celebrating and advancing Italian heritage through education, the arts, and public programming.
Located on Staten Island, NY, Casa Belvedere serves as a vibrant hub for cultural exchange, offering lectures, exhibitions, performances, language instruction, and community events that highlight Italy’s enduring contributions to art, history, science, and cuisine. Through inclusive and inspiring programs, Casa Belvedere fosters connection, creativity, and cross-cultural understanding for audiences of all ages.
To learn more, visit www.Casa-Belvedere.org
