Deering Estate Foundation welcomes newly elected members to Board of Directors

The Deering Estate Foundation's Executive Director Nina Zanella and President Carole Wright welcomed six distinguished newly elected directors to the organization's Board of Directors at the Foundation's annual meeting in January 2024. 

Fellow Board members, trustees, and staff welcomed the new members to join the Board of Directors in fulfilling the Foundation's mission to preserve and protect the Deering Estate's education and research initiatives, cultural arts programming, environmental conservation efforts, and historic preservation.

The six new members of the 2024-2026 Board of Directors are:

Jeffrey Flanagan is the Managing shareholder of the Flanagan Law Firm in Coral Gables. Jeff received his undergraduate degree from the University of Rhode Island and a law degree from the University of Miami Law School where he graduated cum laude. Jeff served nine years on the Coral Gables Planning and Zoning Board. According to Jeff, “I want to give back to the community. I have been to the Seafood Festival, and I loved it.”

Doreen Furnari is a member of the 100 Ladies of Deering. She has a bachelor’s degree from Florida State University, an MBA from University of Miami Business School, and a law degree from University of Miami Law School. Doreen graduated cum laude. She serves as Company Secretary at Carnival Corporation since June 2023, and has been at Carnival Corporation since August 1995.  According to Doreen, "As a long time South Florida resident, I’ve looked for ways to make a broader difference in the community where I live, all while developing connections and friendships. Being a part of the Deering Board is an honor."

Raul Garcia has a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from Florida State University. He joined Kauffman Rossin in 1998 in the areas of banking, hedge funds and private equity. Raul is a leader in the community. He is also the chair of the Miami Finance Forum.  According to Raul, "I love and admire the Deering property."

David Santiago attended the Universidad De Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, Miami Dade Community College, and the University of Miami. David is an Independent Claims Adjuster and took on that career in 1985. He also worked for Eastern Airlines for eighteen years. According to David, “I believe in the cause of the Estate, and its history.”

Aleksey Shtivelman has a Bachelor of Arts from Stony Brook University and a J.D. in law from Boston University Law School. Aleksey is a partner in the Miami office of Shutts & Bowen, LLP, where he is a member of the International Dispute Resolution Practice Group. According to Aleksey, “beyond my qualifications, my personal connection to the Deering Estate drives my desire to serve on the board. I have enjoyed countless visits, educational programs, and events at the estate, and I am committed to ensuring that future generations can do the same.”

Walter Evanson owns NR Hair Salon in the Falls. Walter served as a volunteer with Christ Fellowship at the Deering Estate Seafood Festival on the Bay. He is currently volunteering with student leadership at Christ Fellowship. Walter has been involved with the Seafood Festival for eleven years. According to Walter, “as a member of the board of directors who loves the Deering Estate Foundation, I believe I would be a great asset by sharing new ideas and bringing awareness to the great programs and events that already exist at the Estate. I will also add diversity to the already wonderful culture at the Estate.” 

Photos of new members of the 2023 - 2024 Board of Directors.

About the Deering Estate
Deering Estate, located at 16701 SW 72 Ave. in Miami, is a 21st Century house museum, cultural and ecological field station, and a national landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places, owned by the State of Florida and managed by Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department. Deering Estate is designated as one of seven Miami-Dade County “Heritage Parks” which have a vital role in our community’s history, environment and in providing recreational and cultural experiences.

About the Deering Estate Foundation
For those who treasure the Deering Estate, who advocate for its preservation and wish to invest in its future, the Deering Estate Foundation provides opportunities for individuals and corporations alike to partake in membership, signature events, and one-of-a-kind experiences, all in service of providing vital funding and support to the Deering Estate. Through these efforts, the foundation fulfills its mission to uphold the legacy of Charles Deering's cherished 1920s-era property, to provide funding for the cultural, educational and recreational experiences it offers, as well as its significant scientific and archaeological endeavors to conserve its diverse flora, fauna and the eight native ecosystems that thrive on its 450 acres, and to ensure its longevity as a prized American heritage site. Established in 1989, The Deering Estate Foundation, Inc. is a community-based charitable 501(c) 3 Florida Corporation and the philanthropic partner of the Deering Estate.