TESTIMONIALS
"I have watched Joshua’s career progress from a talented Walt Disney World leader, to one of the most influential leaders in the Central Florida community. Joshua founded Central Florida Arts in 2010, and has grown it into world class community organization. Joshua has demonstrated the woo factor to garner support and resources, and the business acumen to build a sustainable model that has benefited hundreds of thousands over the past 10 years. Orlando is a much better place because of Joshua’s passion and commitment."
Dan Cockerell, Former Vice-President at Magic Kingdom
“We are grateful for the role Joshua has played in developing Central Florida Community Arts into an integral part of the artistic landscape of the City of Orlando and Central Florida over the past 10 years. He has leveraged his leadership and artistic skills to provide artistic opportunities to hundreds of children and adults throughout Orlando. The City of Orlando is proud to partner with him in his capacity as Executive Director of Central Florida Community Arts and looks forward to watching him continue his mission of making the arts accessible to Central Florida and beyond.”
Mayor Buddy Dyer, City of Orlando
“Joshua combines the best traits of an entrepreneur and a leader with a deep commitment to using the arts to enrich people of all ages. The result is his hugely successful Central Florida Community Arts organization, with, among other things, one of the largest choral music programs in the nation. It’s inspiring to see how he is now sharing his considerable experience to help other creative leaders learn how to take an ambitious vision and turn it into a significant community benefit.”
Catherine Dehoney, President/CEO at Chorus America
"From the moment I first met Joshua Vickery I was impressed by his passion for people! His enthusiasm for the arts and the Orlando Region is genuine and contagious...he has created an organization that connects hundreds of community residents with theatre, dance, singing or performing in an orchestra, within a safe, fun, professional and inclusive experience. Just as impressive is Joshua's mission to use the performing arts as a community builder by offering opportunities for arts education, volunteering and social service. His vision is so contagious that I even joined the community choir, which has truly been a gift of music and laughter!"
Pam Nabors, President/CEO at CareerSource of Central Florida
“Joshua Vickery has become a Central Florida institution. He is known for his inclusive qualities, enthusiastic spirit and team building skills”
Rich Maladecki, President/CEO at Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association
“This young man has brought together so many volunteers who love to sing or play an instrument that CFCArts has to perform in Calvary and Northland Churches to hold their large audiences, with ticket prices under $15.”
The Community Paper
“Joshua Vickery is an amazing servant leader who understands what it takes to engage and entertain a community. I have worked with Joshua for many years, having facilitated a number of board retreats for CFCA and having worked alongside him in other community based venues and events. Joshua is a force of nature. He is ever-ready with a smile and a strategy to save the day. One of the things that stands out in Joshua’s leadership style is his high integrity and his perpetual genuineness. His heart and his mind are always in the right place and he gives of both so generously. Joshua is the Real Deal in the form of a truly good and kind human being and he’s changing the world. I am proud to help him in this endeavor, and to call him my friend. If you get the chance to work with Joshua Vickery, I vote YES! You can thank me later.”
Bob Kodzis, Writer, Artist, Performer, Teacher, Speaker, Facilitator, Innovator and Chief Creative Catalyst at Flight of Ideas, Inc.
“Joshua Vickery is a shining star throughout our community. He knows no strangers, and has an ability to bring diverse people together to create an experience that is meaningful for both the audience and storytellers. His productions don’t end with the final bow -- in fact, his ability to use art as a medium for good inspire others to do the same in their daily lives. It’s a ripple effect that can transform spaces and communities.”
Rep. Anna Eskamani, Member of Florida House of Representatives
"It has been an honor to know and work with Joshua Vickery. As a local leader and known activist, building relationships is crucial for representation. Josh has been increasingly helpful in building relationships through networking and has been a thought partner in how to scale relationships as well. I lean on Josh not only as a friend, however, as another mindful and intentional leader within the community."
Chevalier Lovett, Chief Operating Officer at Florida Rising & Representation Matters and Host at Opera Orlando
“I met Joshua Vickery ten years ago at a fundraiser when his vision for Central Florida Community Arts was becoming a reality. His passionate, creative, and innovative leadership were obvious from that initial conversation and continue to shine as he continues to answer his call of sharing and celebrating the arts throughout the community. CFCArts’ mission is to connect, serve and perform. Josh’s enthusiasm and dedication bring a diverse and talented group of individuals together who join him in fulfilling that mission. Their inventiveness during these months of the COVID crisis, allows CFCArts to continue its mission in new and innovative ways. Life in Central Florida is better because of Josh’s vision and work throughout the community and all who know Josh are better for it, his passion truly inspires.”
Larry Watchorn, Executive Director at Florida Theatrical Association
“I have had the opportunity to know and work with Joshua Vickery since 2013. He is a rare combination: an excellent administrator, a creative entrepreneur, an artist, a community leader, and a friend to all who know him. Joah has boundless enthusiasm, always seeing what could be, while never losing sight of the often rocky road to get "there." I can highly recommend Josh to individuals and organizations who are working toward a better tomorrow for themselves or those they serve.”
Barbara Wetzler, Non-Profit Consultant and Former Executive Director at Greater Pet Alliance
“Joshua Vickery has the winning charm that attracts followers, but more than that he understands the work needed to create and follow a strong vision and engage the right players to allow that vision to flourish.”
Terry Olson, Director of Arts and Cultural Affairs at Orange County Government
"I have known Joshua for 10 years and have marveled at his leadership in our arts community and how he has navigated a big mission – arts for all. We shared a building together and when we all had to unexpectedly relocate quickly he kept his young organization moving forward and created new partnerships for venues and programs. I recommend him to help you create, solve problems and turn challenges into wins!"
Robert Hill, Artistic Director at Orlando Ballet
“This young leader doesn’t accept barriers when it comes to the arts.”
Orlando Business Journal
“Josh has been the inspiration and driving force behind the hugely successful Central Florida Community Arts. Through his vision and leadership, it has grown into one of our most beloved organizations, helping budding artists' dreams come true and forging partnerships throughout the region. Josh is highly thought of throughout the Orlando community and beyond and a respected voice to champion the arts.”
Kay Rawlins, Founder/SVP of Community Relations at Orlando City Soccer and President at -Orlando City Foundation
“He may be the founder and executive director of CFCArts, but Vickery’s unofficial title might as well be “remover of barriers” as it relates to access to the arts in Greater Orlando.”
Orlando Family Magazine
“The multitalented Vickery—he’s a vocalist, actor, teacher, producer, musical director, arts administrator and conductor—saw continued success with his community-centric performing arts group, which he launched in 2010.”
Orlando Magazine
“Joshua is an inspiring and authentic public speaker with a true heart for supporting the arts and an uncanny ability to rally forces to create big winds of change! As an advocate, government collaborator, and organizer of volunteers and artists, Joshua is able to help be the catalyst for new projects, organizational growth, and strategic thought - and help you have fun doing it!”
Vicki Landon, Senior Director of Development at Orlando REP Theatre
“I have known of Joshua Vickery’s leadership abilities since before I ever met him years ago. It seemed that all I heard about in the Cultural Arts Community was this new organization, Central Florida Community Arts, and it’s dynamic leader. Once I finally had the occasion to meet Joshua in person, I understood what all the buzz was about. Joshua ignites passion in those he touches. He is visionary, creative, talented, artistic and fearless to create change. He imagines how the world could be made better and understands the role of the arts in that quest. He empowers and creates pathways for those who are lucky enough to be associated with him. His circle of influence just keeps growing and growing. You will not find anyone with more dynamic leadership skills than Joshua Vickery.”
Debbie Fahmie, Former Arts Specialist at Osceola County Public Schools
“Joshua’s extensive background in all aspects of the arts provides him with the opportunity and skill to be a strong voice for arts advocacy, arts and health programs and the importance of arts education in our region. He took a grassroots idea, cast a dream that people could embrace and then truly created change. Change that has made a difference not only for those involved in creating the “art,” but also for those who witness it. With his passion for non-profit work, arts accessibility and the empowerment of community members, he would be an asset to any leader, organization or team who seek to create or enhance a vision and then give it life!”
Dr. Ann McGee, Community Advocate and Former President at Seminole State College
"Josh is a once in a generation leader who has helped transform the arts and cultural scene in Central Florida over the last two decades. His ability to not only successfully guide his own organization, but also to form partnerships across many industry lines has made him an indispensable part of the ultimate growth and future success of our community. He continues to inspire others to do the same, bringing out the best in people through his inspirational words and example he sets."
Brendan Lynch, Chair at United Arts of Central Florida
"Joshua is a living example of someone who has taken their passion and used it to transform not only his own life, but the lives of others as well. He is a real change-maker and an incredible asset to our community. I’m excited that his experience can now be shared with those individuals and organizations who are interested in making a difference either personally or professionally."
Diana Silvey, Vice President at Winter Park Health Foundation's Center for Health & Wellbeing
"Joshua worked with the board of the Arlington Chorale over the period of several months, leading two short retreats with the full board and also meeting with smaller committees from the board. His expertise and enthusiasm have been invaluable as we worked to redefine our mission and vision, identified key goals for the organization, and began drafting a new strategic plan. Joshua encouraged us to "dream big," and those dreams have really helped us move the organization forward. As one board member put it, "Talking to Joshua is always so inspiring! He makes you feel like anything is possible!" Joshua offers lots of practical advice along with a visionary outlook, and we are thrilled we had the opportunity to work with him!"
Dr. Ingrid Lestrud, Artistic Director at Arlington Chorale