50 Most Powerful People of 2024 In Orlando: Entertainment, Sports & The Arts

1. Kathy Ramsberger | President & CEO, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

Earlier this year when the sprawling, $500-plus million Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts formally christened yet another new venue that had been tucked into downtown Orlando’s crown jewel, there was no question as to who would lead the first few tours of art supporters, journalists and local dignitaries.

“This is a music room,” explained Dr. Phillips Center President & CEO Kathy Ramsberger as she led a group through the venue, called Judson’s Live, an intimate restaurant/music room suitable for a broad variety of jazz, folk and classical performances. Then she added: “This is another opportunity for people to say, ‘There is something for me here.’”

That’s been Ramsberger’s mantra all along as the president and driving force behind the center since its conception—that the center is anything but an exclusive hideaway for highbrows and snobs. It’s for everyone, true to its slogan “Arts for Every Life®.”

“Our mission is to be an inspirational place where people love to be,” she says. “Our inspiration comes from a successful business year, the joy our guests and community feel when they visit the arts center and a motivated work force. We’re also inspired by our proud board members, donors and sponsors.” 

Fulfilling that vision accounts for why Ramsberger is especially pleased by the variety of performers who have appeared at Judson’s Live so far, which includes more than 71 artists and 197 shows that have featured everything from country, jazz and hip-hop to rock, Latin, wine tastings and brunches.

“We’re always running the arts center at full speed, creating a need for more space,” she says. “This presents a great opportunity for us to develop the rest of our 9-acre campus. We’re also focusing on staying ahead of what our audience expectations are and keeping our content fresh. With the right resources, we can do even more.”      

2. Alex Martins | CEO, Orlando Magic

With nearly four decades of experience, Alex Martins has played an instrumental role in shaping not only the success of the Orlando Magic but also the broader economic and social landscape of Central Florida. One of the most ambitious projects under his guidance is Westcourt, set to open in late 2026 or early 2027. This development promises to spark economic growth, create jobs and enhance the quality of life in the city’s Parramore neighborhood.

Under Martins’ leadership, the Orlando Magic has become a beacon of community service. At its heart is the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation (OMYF).

“The OMYF serves at-risk youth in Central Florida, supporting youth-based programs in the areas of education, housing/homelessness, the arts and health and wellness,” says Martins.

Over the past year, the OMYF distributed $1 million to local nonprofits, marking the 16^th time it has reached this milestone. 

Another pillar of the Magic’s community engagement is the Magic Volunteer Program (MVP), which encourages team employees to give back to the community. 

Martins has also championed initiatives aimed at fostering economic empowerment within Orlando’s African-American community.

3. Mark Wilf | Owner & Chairman, Orlando City SC and Orlando Pride

Mark Wilf has played a pivotal role in transforming the soccer experience in Orlando since taking the helm in July 2021. His leadership has not only driven on-field success but also facilitated significant off-field upgrades, enhancing the fan experience and solidifying the club’s status within the community.

One of the most notable changes in recent months is the renaming of Orlando’s downtown soccer venue to INTER&Co Stadium. This long-term partnership with INTER&Co reflects the club’s forward-looking vision, promising new opportunities and considerable investments aimed at elevating the matchday experience. 

Another major enhancement is the introduction of Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology in the Den, streamlining the shopping experience so fans can spend less time in lines. The stadium’s infrastructure has also been upgraded, with enhanced internet access via Wi-Fi 6 and 6E and the addition of 5G antennas. New concourse activations include “The Vault” selfie station and the soon-to-be-unveiled Jersey History Experience presented by Orlando Health.

4. Jason Siegel | President & Chief Executive Officer, Greater Orlando Sports Commission 

Jason Siegel’s tenure at GO Sports has been marked by his ability to facilitate substantial growth within the organization. The commission’s board of directors has quadrupled in size, with leadership roles now shared by partners from both the public and private sectors. Moreover, corporate partnerships have surged from a mere four to more than 175 under his guidance.

One of Siegel’s most significant achievements includes the procurement of substantial grant funding and the successful securing of marquee events. Orlando’s selection for 17 NCAA National Championship events between 2022 and 2026 stands as a testament to Siegel’s exceptional leadership. Siegel also brought the 2019 MLS All-Star Game and numerous NCAA championships to Orlando. 

Siegel’s commitment to maximizing the impact of events, such as the upcoming 2025 Pro Bowl, on small businesses also stands out. 

“When we do economic impact reporting, what I love, the first line I look at, is spend in Orlando… forget about what visitors are spending… What did the NFL, the NBA, the MLS, WWE, the Olympic Committee spend in our community?” 

5. Jennifer Evins | President & CEO, United Arts of Central Florida

Like any professional arts advocate, Jennifer Evins has developed a thick skin when it comes to contending with the pressures involved in celebrating the arts while coaxing money out of donors to support them. 

Still, the veteran arts lobbyist was stunned by the abrupt, statewide cutback that Gov. Ron DeSantis made by vetoing the $32 million that had been scheduled for the arts in Florida. 

“It just shows there’s an absolute misunderstanding of the value the arts provide,” she says.

Evins was cheered by the results of an ambitious partnership between the Orlando’s Downtown Development Board and United Arts that will bring more than 800 “art activations” including painters, musicians and performance artists to downtown Orlando.

Called “Project DTO,” the plan, says Evins, is to connect artists with downtown visitors and workers in public spaces to help create a vibrant downtown atmosphere.

Photo ©Carey Sheffield Photography

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