Sponsored content writing for the 2016 Destinations issue of Worth magazine
Worth magazine’s yearly Destinations issue is meant to highlight the way U.S. cities are thriving beyond the traditional tourism machine. To accompany the print feature, I helped research and write additional elements for the Enjoy, Work, Live, and Connect sections online.
In addition to tourism attractions, Orlando has a robust technology-centric economy, industry-leading medical, educational and scientific institutions, and great places to live and raise a family. Orlando’s broad-based growth stems from a genuine and pervasive spirit of collaboration. The stories below show a city that might surprise you.
ENJOY
Whatever you’re in the mood for, Orlando offers a wealth of cultural activities.
Pro Bowl 2017
Held at Camping World Stadium, the NFL Pro Bowl 2017 moves to Orlando with a week-long celebration of football that includes fun for the whole family, culminating in the main event, which will see a return to the traditional AFC vs. NFC game format.
Orlando City Soccer Club
Lion Nation will soon have a new location in which to cheer on their favorite soccer teams. Created below ground level, the Orlando City stadium will be home to both the Orlando City and Orlando Pride teams in a space designed with the intention of amplifying the crowd, rain or shine.
Orlando Magic
Celebrate the NBA Orlando Magic’s nearly 30 years of basketball reign in the city where it all began. Watch home games at Amway Center, the technologically advanced venue that boasts the largest main scoreboard in the NBA.
WORK
Orlando may be best known for its entertainment options. But increasingly, it’s known as a city where business gets serious.
Tupperware Brands Corporation
The iconic kitchenware company has experienced worldwide growth in the past 50 years thanks to a sales force of nearly 3 million members. With a corporate base in Orlando, Tupperware sells goods under seven brands of products for food prep, serving and storage, and the company supports a socially responsible mission to educate and empower women and girls.
LIVE
Between its engaging neighborhoods and progressive medical care, Orlando fosters an excellent quality of life.
US Tennis Association
The new USTA National Campus is a 64-acre expanse for tennis players on the local and national level. The facility will house more than 100 tennis courts in a variety of styles for residents of the Orlando community while hosting collegiate and pro championships.
Florida Hospital
Founded in 1908, Florida Hospital is one of the largest not-for-profit healthcare providers in the country with 22 campuses and the goal of catering to whole-person health—wellness of mind, body and spirit.
University of Central Florida
With 13 colleges and 63,000 students in 210 degree programs, the University of Central Florida, founded in 1963, is now the state’s largest university. Students come from all 50 states and 148 countries.
Nemours Children’s Hospital
A nonprofit focused on pediatric medical care and research, Nemours Children’s Hospital is a family-centered health system, where doctors and staff are trained to help families actively participate in their child’s care.
CONNECT
What are the pillars of Orlando’s long-term growth? Education and planning.
University of Central Florida Downtown Campus (2019)
Set to open in the heart of Orlando in 2019, UCF Downtown will accommodate 7,700 college students who will be living, learning and working alongside local businesses. The university will offer degrees in digital media and communication, health information technology and administration, and community-facing programs like social work and legal studies.
Rollins College
At Rollins College—a liberal arts school founded in 1885 in Winter Park—students are challenged to step outside their intellectual comfort zones in learning and community service. With nearly 100 student-led organizations and clubs, plus a prime location on the banks of Lake Virginia, the environment is perfect for pursuing passions and reaching potential.
Full Sail University
Creating impact with chart-topping hits, influential films, innovative games and landmarks in technology and art, Full Sail University alumni have made lasting impressions in the world of the arts thanks to their education at the Winter Park school. Students from all 50 states plus 67 countries converge at this institution of higher learning to earn degrees in entertainment, media, arts and technology.
Florida K-12 Schools
Spread across four K–12 school districts (Lake County, Orange County, Osceola County and Seminole County), the Orlando region’s educational offerings are high performing and award winning. In addition to receiving numerous accolades, the districts offer magnet programs, arts schools and personalized learning approaches.
DirectConnect to UCF
DirectConnect guarantees admission to UCF after students earn an associate’s degree from one of the partner colleges. With access to UCF campuses, student services and activities, DirectConnect offers a shorter time to degree completion and a smooth transition to UCF.