Katy McDonald
President and CEOWe're thrilled to introduce you to Katy McDonald
The new President and Chief Executive Officer of Forever Balboa Park!
Katy brings over 30 years of experience in non-profit leadership, including significant roles at the San Diego Symphony Orchestra and The San Diego Museum of Art. With her extensive background in arts, urban development, and community engagement, Katy shares our deep commitment to preserving and enhancing the beauty and cultural richness of Balboa Park. She’s ready to lead us into an exciting new chapter as we continue to protect and celebrate this beloved landmark.
In her own words, Katy says:
“I am honored to join Forever Balboa Park and help build upon its incredible legacy. I look forward to working with the entire community to ensure that Balboa Park continues to thrive as a vibrant, inclusive space for all visitors to enjoy.”
Stay tuned for more details on how you can join this special event!
Thank you for your continued support of Forever Balboa Park. Together, we’re making a lasting impact on this treasured park, ensuring its beauty and legacy for generations to come.
Senior Leadership:
Katy McDonald
Craig Batrez
Jacqueline Higgins, ASLA
Elizabeth Porter, CPA
Phillip Sammuli
Board Members

Victoria Hamilton, Chair

Pemberton Smith, Treasurer

Lynn Langley, Secretary

Doug Kerner, Immediate Past Chair

John Venekamp, Chair-Elect

Pat Caughey

Gaidi Finnie

Joyce Gattas, PhD

George Hardy

James Hughes

Maureen Lamberti

Jaimi Lomas

Connie Matsui

Betty Peabody

Gonzalo Rojas

Allison Rossett

Jonathan Shulman

John Toman

Ken Tranbarger

Lucy Warren

Pete Wheeler

Ann Wilson

Michael Yee
Staff
Guadalupe Blanchard,
Facilities
Bill Brown,
Balboa Park Carousel Manager
Jorge Campos,
Facilities
Angelica Pulido,
Balboa Park Visitors Center
Lucy Beck,
Major Gifts & Planned Giving Officer
Lisa Campano,
Balboa Park Visitors Center
Brenda Castillo,
Senior Manager of Visitors Services
Sophia Galvez,
Volunteer Project Coordinator
David Barnathan,
Executive Assistant
Dan Gonzalez,
Facilities Coordinator
Andrea Durell,
Senior Volunteer Project Manager
Briana Tellez,
Marketing and Communications Specialist
Meki Terefe,
AmeriCorps VIP Fellow
Ellie Gaffo,
Senior Project Specialist
Jordan White,
Visitors Services Manager
Angel Castro,
AmeriCorps VIP Fellow
Annie Petersen,
Donor Relations and Database Specialist