What is the MSPC Associate Board? Launched in 2014, our Associate Board engages residents and enthusiastic supporters of the park to act as ambassadors for our favorite urban oasis. These individuals play a key role in promoting and supporting the park while tying the Conservancy’s efforts to businesses and community groups in our neighborhood.

Recently, we sat down with Regina, a native New Yorker, to discuss their connection to the park and why they decided to dedicate their time to the Associate Board.

Tell us a little bit about yourself!
My name is Regina Warga, I am a native New Yorker… born on East 20th Street. I’ve lived in the East Village, Upper East Side, Brooklyn Heights, Sutton Place and NoMad. I love New York City and its really the only place I want to live. I have two beautiful children – Thomas age 11 and Miriam (Mimi) age 8. They have been growing up in NYC since 2012. They also love the city and all it has to offer.

Why do you love Madison Square Park?
From 2003 to 2010 I lived on 28th and Park Ave South. That was my first grown up, all mine, apartment and I loved it. I visited MSP frequently… eating breakfast there, watching the bird and flowers, catching some sun. When my son was born in 2012, we were living in Brooklyn Heights, but we still returned to MSP to take him to the playground and attend the BBQ events. Since my daughter has come along (in 2015) I’ve also taken her to play in the park.

I recently started working at New York Life which is located right on the park. My father also worked there from 1971 to 2008. He had experience with the park before it was in the beautiful state it is in today. It’s a reminder to me of how important it is to care for OUR park in OUR city and I intend to pass that on to my children.

How did you get involved with the Associate Board?
When I started working at New York Life, Sheila Davidson (MSPC Board President) invited me to attend a MSPC event at Scarpetta’s. I really enjoyed the VinVino event and was able to connect with Deepka Sani after and eventually Jude Gorman. I quickly realized I wanted to join their efforts and be part of continuing to make MSP a great place.

What’s your favorite part of being an Associate Board member?
The AB is a diverse group of great people with a common goal to take special care of our park. My first meeting (which was only a few weeks ago) confirmed that I had made the right decision. It’s an awesome feeling to be surrounded by like minded change agents who really want to make the neighborhood and the city a great place for us, our children, friends and neighbors. And on top of all that they like to have a good time! I loved attending happy hour after the meeting at Black Barn. And as a result I was able to meet the Chef and eventually arranged to have my parents 50th anniversary celebration in their wine cellar! What a win 😊

Last but not least, what is a fun fact about yourself?
I love running, biking, and walking all over the city and as a result I’ve crossed every bridge that enters/exits Manhattan either on foot or on bicycle.

Interesting in learning more about this program or joining the Associate Board yourself? Our team would love to meet you! You can contact us by emailing info@madisonsquarepark.org.