The nonprofit Friends of San Damiano was organized with a mission to advance and help transform this unique place into a public space — for recreation, programming, and peaceful reflection. We envision a future in which people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds can enjoy a natural lakeside destination that respects the environment, honors history, celebrates culture, invites recreation, and enriches the lives of everyone who visits.
The future of San Damiano depends on a vital public-private relationship between the City of Monona and Friends of San Damiano. This collaboration is key to advancing the San Damiano Master Plan—a vision for sustainable development that balances preservation and progress.
As we move forward, Friends of San Damiano will steward the property and take the lead on maintenance, operations, programming, and raising private funds to support the master plan’s multi-phase implementation. The City will retain ownership of the property and make final decisions.
This partnership is essential to conserving the land and bringing the shared vision of the master plan to life.
We are on the cusp of creating a one-of-a-kind lakeside destination that will serve the Dane County community for generations. This year is a pivotal year of transition and preparation, positioning us for future growth. Our mission is centered on transforming the San Damiano property into a vibrant, accessible public space that honors the environment, history, and cultural heritage of the land.
There is much work ahead, but with your support, we can achieve something truly significant. Together, we will bring the San Damiano Master Plan to life, creating a sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant space that serves as a lasting legacy for all.
President
Past President
Secretary, Community Engagement Committee Chair
Treasurer
Board Member, Communications Committee Chair
Board Member, Fundraising Committee Chair
Board Member
Board Member
Board Member
Board Member
Board Member
Board Member
Board Member, Monona Mayor, ex officio
Interim Managing Director
Operations Manager, Friends of San Damiano, dawn@sandamianomonona.org, 608-571-3428
Former Executive Director, Madison Community Foundation
Attorney
Secretary, Community Engagement Committee Chair
Interim Managing Director
Operations Manager, Friends of San Damiano, dawn@sandamianomonona.org, 608-571-3428
Board Member
Board Member, Communications Committee Chair
Interim Managing Director
Operations Manager, Friends of San Damiano, dawn@sandamianomonona.org, 608-571-3428
Board Member, Fundraising Committee Chair
Interim Managing Director
Operations Manager, Friends of San Damiano, dawn@sandamianomonona.org, 608-571-3428
Past President
President
Board Member
