Foundation & Colony Staff

Lesley Williamson, Director

Lesley comes to Saltonstall by way of Chautauqua County where she worked as a program coordinator for Chautauqua Institution's signature lecture series and, more recently, as the director of the North Shore Arts Alliance, a grass-roots organization representing professional visual artists in all media. Lesley earned her Master of Arts Management degree from Carnegie Mellon University. She brings a wealth of not-for-profit organizational experience in addition to a passion for the arts and a deep understanding of the importance of supporting art at its source. 

R. Joseph Dannelley, Chief Financial Officer

Joe began working for the Saltonstall family in 1979. When the foundation was born, Joe was there to be sure the property was well managed, the land protected, the artists comfortable, and Connie's dream realized and maintained. Now, in semi-retirement, Joe ensures the foundation's financial house is in order. There couldn't be a better steward.

David Pealo, Property Manager

Dave Pealo came to us when, after many years with the Saltonstall family and 14 with the foundation, Joe Dannelley decided the only grounds he wanted to work on where his own. Like Joe, Dave is a true Renaissance man. When you hold the title Property Manager you have to be.

Denise De Cesare, Colony Chef

It was a happy day when Denise agreed to take on the role of Colony Chef. Her passion for good food, innate culinary talents, and easy-going personality have made her presence in the kitchen a delight to the artists. Denise seems to have the perfect life, spending winters in California and returning to Ithaca in the spring.