About Friends of Danada

Purpose: The purpose of the organization is to assist and support the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County in the administration and operation of the former DuPage County estate - comprising of 780 acres - of Daniel and Ada Rice for the use and enjoyment of the citizens on DuPage County.

Friends of Danada is a non-profit, volunteer group that assists and supports the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County with projects and programs at Danada Forest Preserve located between Naperville and Wheaton, Illinois. Our Board Members, staff, and volunteers all work hard to promote the history of the Danada Estate as well as engage with the public in fun and educational programing.

Board Members

  • President - Peter Dopper

  • Vice President - Tom Anderson

  • Secretary - Larry Loehr

  • Treasurer - Mike Leemans

  • Public Relations - Connie Devendorf

  • Trustees

    • Lois Boecker

    • Amy Harless

    • Sharon Kincaid

    • Tom Kuhn

    • Carey Peterson

    • Bruce Roskens

  • Friends of Danada Executive Director - Deborah Cuca Brooks

  • Corporate Agent - Jill Ludvigsen

  • District Liaison - Wayne Zaininger

  • Archive and History Consultant - Claire Svehla