Orlando teens are launching arts careers through a new work study program. The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts joins Cristo Rey Orlando High School as a Corporate Work Study partner, welcoming students into a yearlong, hands-on learning experience across departments including marketing and communications, development, corporate affairs and education.
Four students began working alongside seasoned professionals within various departments at the arts center beginning September 8th, gaining real-world experience that traditionally is offered at the college level or beyond.
“By opening our doors, we’re giving students an opportunity to explore careers in the arts and start building connections early,” said Kathy Ramsberger, president and CEO of Dr. Phillips Center. “We’re thrilled to welcome them, share our team’s passion and help shape the next generation of arts leaders right here in Central Florida.”
Cristo Rey Orlando High School, which opened its doors this fall with a founding freshman class of 121, is a career-focused, college preparatory institution dedicated to serving students with limited economic resources.
The school blends a rigorous academic curriculum with four years of professional work experience, complemented by leadership and career readiness training, supported by strong partnerships with educators, businesses and community leaders.
Through Cristo Rey’s Corporate Work Study Program, every student works one day a week during the school year in an entry-level, professional role across all four years of high school.
This innovative model helps students cover most of their educational costs and also gives them valuable exposure to real-world workplaces. By learning to navigate professional environments, they gain practical skills, build confidence and begin shaping their career goals.
“At Cristo Rey Orlando, we believe every student carries within them a spark of creativity, talent and purpose,” said Amanda Livermore, Founding President and CEO, Cristo Rey Orlando High School. “Dr. Phillips Center has long been a place where the arts inspire greatness in our community and now they are opening that same space of possibility to our students.”
Livermore emphasized the transformative nature of the program: “By welcoming students onto their team and co-sponsoring our inaugural Draft Day alongside AdventHealth, the arts center is providing real-world experience while also affirming the immense potential we have seen in our students since the first day we met them. Together, we are shaping the next generation of leaders who will create, innovate and serve with excellence.”
On August 21st, Cristo Rey students participated in Draft Day inside Steinmetz Hall. Members of the school’s founding class were carefully matched by the Cristo Rey Orlando team with professional organizations across Central Florida, marking their first step into the professional world and beginning a transformative year of mentorship, career exploration and skill-building.
The program begins with Dr. Phillips Center‘s 2025-26 season, giving students front-row seats to the business behind the curtain at one of the leading performing arts venues in the country.
Dr. Phillips Center’s participation in the program is made possible through the generous support of Robin Neel.
