News Summary
The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando has announced the appointment of seven new directors as it prepares for its second decade and expansion plans. CEO Kathy Ramsberger expressed confidence that the new board will enhance the center’s mission. The center also bids farewell to four outgoing members and celebrates ten years of achievement with the unveiling of a History Walk installation. Additionally, two parcels of land have been acquired for future expansion, demonstrating a commitment to community engagement and cultural impact.
Orlando Welcomes New Directors and Expansion Plans at Dr. Phillips Center
The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando has appointed seven new directors to its board, marking a significant step as the center prepares for its second decade and further expansion. The newly elected board members, who began their two-year terms on July 31, 2025, include Rick Cardenas, Joseph Conte, Ryan DeVos, Ted Edwards, Leila Jammal, Tony Jenkins, and Marc McMurrin.
Kathy Ramsberger, the president and CEO of the Dr. Phillips Center, has expressed confidence that the new board members will contribute energy, insight, and a love for the arts in alignment with the center’s mission, “Arts For Every Life®.” The board plays a crucial role in planning, fundraising, and community partnerships as well as program development.
Recognizing Outgoing Board Members
The updates also include a farewell to four outgoing board members: The Honorable Linda Chapin, Steve Miller, Jim Shapiro, and Jonathan Taylor. Their contributions to the center’s early development have been acknowledged, highlighting their significant roles in realizing the vision and dream of the arts center.
Celebrating a Decade of Achievements
To commemorate its first decade, the Dr. Phillips Center recently unveiled a History Walk installation. This interactive project showcases a living timeline of construction milestones, grand openings, community programs, and cultural achievements since the center first opened its doors on November 6, 2014. Since its inception, the center has hosted over 5,000 performances and 2,700 events, contributing over $190 million annually to the local economy and welcoming more than five million guests. Additionally, it has invested more than $22.8 million in community initiatives focused on education, accessibility, and wellness.
The History Walk is available to ticketed guests and will remain open through November 6, 2025, allowing visitors to reflect on the center’s journey and accomplishments.
Land Acquisition for Future Expansion
In a strategic move to support future growth, the Dr. Phillips Center has acquired two parcels of land in downtown Orlando, covering a total of 43,948 square feet. The center purchased the properties located at 42 E. Jackson St. and 36 E. Jackson St. for $10.39 million. While specific long-term plans for the acquired land have yet to be disclosed, it is anticipated that the purchase will facilitate high-impact events and community engagement initiatives in the future.
In the short term, the newly acquired properties will serve as administrative offices and guest parking, addressing the growing demand for space and services as the center continues to expand its offerings.
Conclusion
The additions to the board and the new land acquisition highlight the Dr. Phillips Center’s commitment to enhancing its cultural impact and service to the Orlando community. With proactive leadership and significant growth plans, the center is poised to continue enriching the local arts scene for years to come.
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Additional Resources
- Bungalower: Seven New Board Members for Dr. Phillips Center
- WFTV: Seven New Board Members Join Dr. Phillips Center
- Wikipedia: Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
- Click Orlando: Dr. Phillips Center Acquires Properties
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Performing Arts
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
