Chairman of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and a founding donor, Timberlake recognized for his lifelong leadership and dedication to the Orlando region
ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP) proudly awarded Ed Timberlake with the 2025 James B. Greene Award during an evening reception Monday, February 3, at Judson’s Live at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
The award, presented annually since 1990, is the highest honor bestowed by the OEP to recognize individuals whose leadership and contributions have significantly advanced the Orlando region’s economic growth, quality of life, and community prosperity.
Timberlake, Chairman of the Dr. Phillips Center and a founding donor, has dedicated nearly 20 years to the art center’s Board of Directors, playing an instrumental role in completing its original design, leading the endowment giving initiative and driving the next phase of development for the 9-acre campus. His leadership and commitment to the arts are complemented by a distinguished career of service across multiple sectors.
From day one, Ed believed in the mission of the Dr. Phillips Center—to be an inspirational place where everyone wants to be—and his steady hand and leadership has played a pivotal role in shaping our culture, success and future plans of the arts center.
Kathy Ramsberger, President & CEO of Dr. Phillips Center
Timberlake’s influence has shaped many aspects of the Central Florida’s community. He served as Managing Chair of the Central Florida Commission on Homelessness, is an Emeritus Member of the Heart of Florida United Way and has been a driving force in the Central Florida market for Seaside National Bank. Timberlake also retired as President of Bank of America Central Florida after a remarkable 15-year tenure.
“Ed Timberlake’s lifelong dedication to community service and leadership exemplifies the essence of the James B. Greene Award,” said Tim Giuliani, President and CEO of the OEP.
His vision and impact have left an indelible mark on Orlando’s growth and prosperity, and we are thrilled to celebrate his contributions with this prestigious honor.
Tim Giuliani, President and CEO of the OEP
The James B. Greene Award honors the legacy of its namesake, James B. Greene, a beloved Orlando businessman, civic leader, and philanthropist. The award recognizes individuals who embody Greene’s commitment to selfless service and community impact.
“It’s an honor to receive this award, but this belongs to so many here who have worked together to make Central Florida better,” Timberlake said.
I encourage every leader in our community to continue the hard work, be courageous, and get back to collaborating hand in hand to build the next generation of leaders.
Ed Timberlake,
Chairman of the Dr. Phillips Center
for the Performing Arts and a founding donor
Past recipients of the award include the late Harris Rosen, President and COO of Rosen Hotels & Resorts; Alex Martins, CEO of the Orlando Magic; Dr. Barbara Jenkins, former Superintendent of Orange County Public Schools; and 2024 honoree Thomas K. Sittema, among others.
The OEP presented the award to Ed Timberlake at an intimate ceremony and the award winner will be speaking to a larger audience during the Regional Vision Summit to be held May 2, sharing insights and inspiring our community further. Registration will open soon.
For more information and media interviews please contact Jennifer Marcial Ocasio | jennifer.marcial@orlando.org | 407-902-0221 or Despina McLaughlin | despina.mclaughlin@drphillipscenter.org | 407-341-5337
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About the Orlando Economic Partnership
Winner of the National Chamber of the Year award, the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP) is an economic and community development organization that is seizing the moment to advance Broad-based Prosperity® and create a more prosperous economy for all. Through the power of partnerships, we grow the economy, attract growing companies, boost job creation, drive investment, improve competitiveness and fuel regional leadership. Learn why opportunity in Orlando is Unbelievably Real™ at InvestOrlando.org.
About Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is a private nonprofit organization (501(c)(3) in downtown Orlando, Florida. The arts center produces, presents and serves as home to regional, national and international works and co-presents Broadway in Orlando. This year, the arts center celebrates its 10th Anniversary, hosting 6,500+ performances and events, welcoming 4.7 million+ guests and contributing over $21.7 million to purpose and community since opening in November 2014. The arts center features renowned venues such as the Walt Disney Theater, Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater, and the acclaimed Steinmetz Hall, recognized among Architectural Digest’s 11 most beautiful theaters worldwide. Judson’s Live, the new live music room, enhances the arts center alongside established venues such as the DeVos Family Room, Rooftop Terrace and Seneff Arts Plaza. Additionally, the AdventHealth School of Arts offers year-round performing arts education. For more information, visit drphillipscenter.org. Follow on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and X.