“The greatest wealth is health.”
– Virgil
Patrons of the Prado is committed to raising funds to benefit arts, science, and cultural centers on the Prado in Balboa Park, and for programs that provide educational access for San Diego County, K-12 school children to the world-class treasures of Balboa Park, inspiring cultural fluency for future generations. Since 1997, Patrons of the Prado has emphasized the importance of the arts by supporting nine Balboa Park beneficiaries. In 2012, the Bucks4Buses signature educational program was created to help San Diego K-12 school children experience the treasures of Balboa Park. More than 89.5% of these children come from Title 1 schools. Barbara Denysiak, MD is the 2025 Masterpiece Chair.
#1 Barbara Denysiak, MD grew up in a small town in northern Poland. I speak Russian as well as Polish.
#2 My husband and I loved French Polynesia.
#3 I would like to visit Greece; I was inspired by last year’s Masterpiece theme!
#4 Favorite Movie: “Roman Holiday”.
#5 Bucket List: Become a grandmother.
#6 I love to swim at home, hike, exercise, and visit Balboa Park with my husband and daughter.
#7 Book Recommendation: How Not To Die by Michael Gregor.
#8 My high school Head of School, Mr. Marian Danczyszyn, changed the course of my life. He encouraged me to leave trade school and pursue a career in medicine – a decision that shaped everything that followed.
#9 As a physician, I immigrated to the United States in the late 1980s to escape former communist Poland. When my daughter joined my medical practice, her genuine commitment to giving back to our community, especially through her work in Balboa Park, deeply moved me. Inspired by her passion for philanthropy and community service, I, too, felt called to contribute to the park that has given my family and me so much.
#10 Barbara Denysiak thrilled that my daughter Jacqueline is president of Patrons of the Prado 2024-2025. When she asked me to be a member, I jumped at the chance to spend quality time with her doing something we both love. The Bucks4Buses educational program really resonates with me, as I believe it is essential to give kids the opportunity to experience the best institutions in Balboa Park. Balboa Park has been a special place for our family since we moved to San Diego. We have enjoyed countless visits to the museums, theater performances, and peaceful strolls down the Prado. For us, Balboa Park is more than just a destination – it is a part of our family’s story.
Patrons of the Prado
Masterpiece 2025 Gala “Elegance of the Elements”
Saturday August 9, 2025
San Diego Natural History Museum
www.patronsoftheprado.org
