Donor Spotlight: Donna and Howard Abell
For Howard and Donna Abell, the arts have always been part of their story. As high school sweethearts growing up in Louisville, Kentucky, they fell in love with live performance at Actor’s Theatre of Louisville-- drawn by the thrill of watching local talent come alive on stage.
When they moved to Florida in 2007, that passion came with them. They became frequent visitors to the Bob Carr Theater and eager supporters of Orlando’s growing arts scene. So, when Dr. Phillips Center began to take shape, the Abells were paying close attention.
Investing in the Vision
The Abells vividly remember the moment they were invited to take a hard hat tour while the arts center was still under construction. “It was amazing to see the bones of the building and learn about the vision,” Howard said. “We both knew we wanted to be involved and support programs that provide access to the arts for our community.”
So, before the doors even opened, the Abells stepped forward as Luminary Members, believing in the future of Dr. Phillips Center and the impact it could have on Central Florida. Luminary Membership gave them early access to ticket sales and other special privileges—all while continuing to support the arts center through generous giving and meaningful involvement to ensure the arts remain accessible to all.
Why They Give
For the Abells, the arts are about access and opportunities.
As Howard put it, “The arts are like spinach — you don’t know if you’ll like it unless you try it. It’s important to provide accessible arts experiences so people can determine if it’s something they’d like to pursue. You’re introduced to different cultures and perspectives. It just makes the whole community better.”
The Abells have also found joy in watching Dr. Phillips Center throughout the years. “One of my favorite memories was the hard hat tour of Steinmetz Hall and seeing how it was built on rubber,” said Howard. “It’s amazing getting to see something built from the ground up, being part of it and then walking into it today and seeing how spectacular it is.”
Donna echoed that sense of pride and inspiration, especially when she sees how the arts bring people together across generations. One moment that stayed with her was a Pilobolus arts & wellness program showcase that takes
place each year at Dr. Phillips Center and seeing a 99-year-old man and young children sharing the stage together. "It perfectly captured what the arts can do," she said.
They also remain passionate supporters of education and youth programs like the Applause Awards because they believe in the value of arts experiences for students and the lasting impact those opportunities can create.
Leaving a Legacy
Moved by what they’ve seen and committed to what comes next, Howard and Donna chose to deepen their commitment by making a gift through their estate to become part of the Legends. Their legacy gift will help sustain meaningful arts and education programs for everyone, from ages 2 to 102 and so much more.
“Kids are our future,” Howard shared, “and we want to be part of providing opportunities and access to those in our community for years to come.”
How You Can Join Them
Like Howard and Donna, your legacy can be a lasting force that carries your values forward and helps ensure the arts remain accessible to everyone. There are many ways your legacy can support creativity, connection and community long after any of us are here to see it.
It’s how forever begins.
Ready to be a Legend? Learn more here.