As the Development Director at Central Florida Vocal Arts (CFVA), Victoria Wells is a dynamic force in the world of arts education, community development, and nonprofit work. Her career trajectory has been shaped by a passion for music, a drive to make a difference, and a deep belief in the power of the arts to transform lives. But Victoria’s path to this role is anything but typical — it’s a journey marked by dedication to both her craft and the communities she serves.
A Lifelong Love for Music
Victoria’s journey into the performing arts began at the age of five. It wasn’t just a passing hobby — it was a calling. She started taking piano lessons, and shortly after, voice lessons followed. Throughout her childhood, music was not just an activity; it was part of her identity. “I never had to be told to practice,” she recalls. “I just loved the process.” That love for music never waned. It only grew stronger as she continued to study music through college, eventually earning a degree in piano performance from Stetson University. Along the way, she minored in political science, recognizing that her desire to help others was just as strong as her love for music.
From Performer to Advocate
After college, Victoria moved to Washington, D.C., where she worked at the Sitar Arts Center, a nonprofit dedicated to providing arts education to underserved communities. It was here that she first intersected her love for the performing arts with her passion for making a difference in people’s lives. While working in arts education and administration, Victoria discovered her natural ability to connect with people and write compelling grants — skills that eventually led her into the world of nonprofit development.
What began as a role in arts administration evolved into her current position as Development Director at CFVA. “I didn’t know what I was getting into at first,” she admits. “But it worked out, and I’ve been lucky to work with so many wonderful people in the community.” After a brief hiatus in other nonprofit sectors, including working with the Center for Independent Living and United Against Poverty, Victoria returned to the arts. “I feel like I’m home now,” she says.
The Importance of Arts Accessibility
A key focus of Victoria’s work at CFVA is ensuring that the arts are accessible to everyone, regardless of age, background, or ability. This passion for accessibility has its roots in her previous work with people with disabilities. “I’ve seen firsthand how difficult it can be for individuals with disabilities to find performance spaces that are accessible,” she shares. “It’s more than just having a ramp to the stage. It’s about creating inclusive spaces where everyone can participate and experience the arts.”
This advocacy for accessibility in the arts is at the heart of CFVA’s mission. From partnerships with organizations like Camp Boggy Creek — which provides arts education to students with serious disabilities — to ongoing efforts to ensure that performances are open and accessible to a diverse audience, Victoria is working tirelessly to create a more inclusive arts environment in Central Florida.
The Power of Arts Education
For Victoria, arts education isn’t just about creating the next generation of performers. It’s about the profound impact the arts can have on a person’s life. “Music education helps with so many aspects of life,” she says. “It improves memory, boosts academic performance, and fosters emotional resilience. Children who study music are 24% more likely to graduate high school, and they do better in math, English, and all their subjects.”
The benefits aren’t limited to children. “It’s never too late to learn music,” Victoria insists. She often encourages adults who stopped playing an instrument years ago to pick it up again. “I’ve had some of my most fulfilled students in their retirement years,” she says, noting that learning music can bring new joy and purpose at any stage of life.
Making the Arts Accessible to All
As CFVA continues to grow, Victoria is working to ensure that the arts remain accessible to people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Through a variety of programs and partnerships, CFVA is creating opportunities for individuals to engage with the arts in meaningful ways.
“We’re committed to creating accessible and affordable arts education opportunities,” Victoria explains. “Whether it’s free performances at the Winter Park Library, recitals that are open to the public, or performances with our community partners, we want to make the arts available to everyone. And soon, we’ll have a space of our own at the Blue Bamboo Performing Arts Center, where we can continue to offer educational programs, performances, and more.”
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Victoria has big plans for the future of CFVA. One of her primary goals is to create a sustainable fundraising strategy that will ensure the organization’s continued growth and impact. “We have an amazing strategic plan in place, and now we’re focusing on building a strong foundation of support to make it a reality,” she says.
Last Month, CFVA hosted “ The Light in the Piazza,” a performance that combined live performance with a unique Italian market experience. Guests enjoyed authentic Italian food, flowers, and handcrafted goods while watching a spectacular performance — all while supporting a cause that is close to Victoria’s heart. It was “An exciting event that combines the arts with community engagement in a meaningful way,” she says.
How You Can Make a Difference
As Victoria points out, everyone has a role to play in supporting the arts. “You can contribute by volunteering, sharing your skills, or by simply spreading the word about CFVA,” she says. “We’re also looking for partners who can help us continue to grow and leave a legacy in the community. Whether it’s through time, talent, or funding, every bit of support makes a difference.”
In her role as Development Director, Victoria is focused on building relationships that will sustain CFVA’s mission for years to come. “We’re not just about performances; we’re about creating lasting change in the community through the arts,” she says. “And we’re just getting started.”
The Heart of CFVA: Building a Community Through the Arts
Victoria’s story is one of passion, dedication, and a deep belief in the power of the arts to transform lives. From her early days as a pianist to her current role at CFVA, she has been on a mission to make the arts accessible, inclusive, and impactful for all. As she looks ahead, she’s excited about the future and the opportunities to build a stronger, more connected arts community in Central Florida.
If you’re looking for ways to get involved, CFVA offers a range of programs and opportunities to engage with the arts. Whether you’re a budding artist, an avid supporter of the arts, or someone looking to learn something new, there’s a place for you at CFVA.
So, what are you waiting for? Join Victoria and the CFVA team in their mission to make the arts accessible to everyone — regardless of age, background, or ability.
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