Meet the Team
Welcome to Tuscan Heritage Foundation Research Foundation
Board Members of The Tuscan Heritage Foundation
The Tuscan Heritage Foundation is guided by a community of Italian and American leaders in hospitality, wine, food, craft, culture, and business—each committed to preserving Tuscany’s living heritage and creating unparalleled cultural experiences. Our board brings deep expertise, shared vision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Officers
President: Daisy Carlson
Founder & President
Daisy was the designer and CEO of Daisy Arts Inc., a luxury design and import company dedicated to traditional Italian craft. For more than two decades, she collaborated with master artisans across Tuscany and Umbria to create bespoke products for high-end international markets, blending heritage techniques with contemporary design. Through this work, she championed the preservation of time-honored skills and elevated the artisans who embody Italy’s finest traditions.
Today, as founder of the Tuscan Heritage Foundation, Daisy continues this mission by nurturing the living heritage of Tuscany’s food, fashion, craft, and art, with a focus on sustainability, cultural continuity, and quality of life. An entrepreneur, author, and cultural ambassador, she leads the foundation’s work through immersive retreats, perennial agriculture programs, and heritage partnerships.
Vice President :Dante Cecchini
Wine & Culinary Advisor
A trusted international advisor to some of Italy’s finest wineries, Dante brings decades of experience in bespoke wine consulting, hospitality operations, and agrifood heritage. His insights strengthen our commitment to authentic, high-quality Tuscan experiences.
Secretary: Tracy Toschi Senior Manager | Integrated Marketing Campaigns | B2B Marketing | Demand Generation | Event Management | Campaign Performance Analytics | Editing
Treasurer: Zara Houshmand is an Iranian-American writer, translator, and theater artist whose work focuses on opening the borders between different cultures.
Additional Board Members
Robert Whitfield
Development, Hospitality & Operational Excellence
With leadership roles overseeing development, operations, sales, marketing, finance, and culture for Auberge Resorts’ West Coast properties, Robert brings world-class hospitality expertise and operational stewardship to the foundation
Ansley Luce
Creative & Digital Strategy
A creative and digital marketing strategist working across nonprofit and for-profit sectors, Ansley specializes in mission-driven storytelling, audience engagement, and strategic outreach. Her work amplifies the foundation’s voice and broadens its community.
Mary O’Mara
Nonprofit Leadership & Arts Advocacy
Executive Director of MarinLink and Marin Arts, Mary specializes in nonprofit capacity building, fiscal sponsorship, and grant making. Her guidance strengthens the foundation’s governance, partnerships, and long-term sustainability.
Board Expansion
The Tuscan Heritage Foundation is actively seeking additional board members who can offer complementary expertise in areas such as:
- Cultural preservation
- Hospitality and guest experience
- Sustainable agriculture
- Finance and governance
- Philanthropy and development
- Education and the arts
- International partnerships
We welcome individuals who are passionate about Tuscany, committed to heritage stewardship, and eager to help expand the impact of Good Things Pressed experiences and the Tuscan Heritage Foundation.
Tuscan Heritage Foundation
Tuscan Makers Partner With the Tuscan Heritage Foundation
The Tuscan Heritage Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the finest expressions of Tuscan heritage with the world. We celebrate products that embody the region’s exceptional craftsmanship, tradition, and connection to the landscape.
If you create a high-quality Tuscan product—whether in food, wine, fashion, craft, or wellness—we welcome you to reach out for consideration as a featured heritage partner.
What We Look For in Heritage Products
We are committed to representing only the most exceptional Tuscan makers. Products considered for partnership should meet the following criteria:
- Authenticity: Rooted in Tuscan traditions, materials, or techniques.
- Excellence: Made to the highest standard—exquisite, noteworthy, and reflective of the region’s heritage of quality.
- Craftsmanship: Produced by artisans, growers, or creators who demonstrate mastery and care.
- Sustainability: Alignment with environmental responsibility, ethical production, and respect for the land.
- Cultural Significance: Products that tell a story, carry tradition forward, or highlight the unique character of Tuscany.
How to Apply
If you believe your product reflects the best of Tuscany, please send us:
- A short description of your product and its origins
- Photos, samples or catalog
- Information on your production methods
- Your sustainability practices
- Contact information and website (if applicable)
Applications and inquiries can be sent to: info@tuscanheritagefoundation.org
Support Our Mission
Your donation can help us continue our important work and make a difference in the world.