Sheralyn Silverstein Interview

Welcome to Horizons at Epcot Center! The quote “If you can dream it, you can do it” was created by Sheralyn Silverstein for General Electric (GE) recruitment advertisements. GE sponsored Horizons from 1983 to 1993. The phrase “If we can dream it, we can do it” was displayed inside the attraction’s entrance doors.

When people talk about Epcot’s Horizons attraction, a common phrase comes to mind: “If you can dream it, you can do it.” For many years, Disney fans believed this quote originated from Walt Disney himself. However, the true story is more intriguing. In this discussion, Sheralyn Silverstein reveals how she created the original line while working as a junior copywriter at Marsteller, a New York advertising agency, during the early 1980s. She was assigned to a General Electric recruitment campaign at the time. Silverstein also explains how the quote evolved, its connection to Horizons, and the importance of receiving credit for your work. If you’re interested in Disney history or the power of words, this is a story worth hearing.

How the Quote Became Part of Horizons at Epcot Center

Once GE approved the campaign, Sheralyn and her art director partner, Marilyn, developed the broader advertising materials centered around the theme line. The project expanded to include brochures and additional advertisements, incorporating creative concepts about technologies that felt futuristic at the time. Sheralyn recalls visiting GE’s research and development division in Schenectady, where she took extensive notes on innovations that seemed like science fiction at that time, such as electric cars, MRI-related technology, and other ideas that would later become part of everyday reality. The quote was particularly fitting; it wasn’t just inspirational language, but rather a reflection of a company striving to envision the future before it arrived.

The line eventually found its way into the Horizons attraction at Epcot, which opened in 1983 and was sponsored by GE. The original line was Sheralyn’s, but the Epcot version adjusted the pronoun from “you” to “we,” creating a more collective and corporate feel. Nevertheless, the core idea originated from her work.

This is where much of Disney history becomes unclear. Over time, many people came to believe that the quote was a phrase attributed to Walt Disney. However, as Sheralyn explains, there is no record of Walt Disney ever writing that line. However, its power makes it sound as if he might have said it, which likely contributed to the lasting attribution.

Why Credit Matters More Than Ever

One of the prominent themes in Sheralyn’s story is the importance of credit. She holds no bitterness towards Disney and expresses great respect for Walt Disney himself. However, she firmly believes that when you create something, your name should be associated with it. This principle has been a guiding force throughout her life. Her grandmother instilled this lesson in her, emphasizing the importance of valuing one’s work and not allowing others to take ownership of your ideas. Sheralyn has carried this lesson into her career, and it has significantly influenced her views on authorship today.

Sheralyn Silverstein’s Personal Connection to Disney

Despite the attribution issue, Sheralyn speaks affectionately about Disney. She fondly recalls visiting Walt Disney World with her family, cherishing special moments with her daughter and husband. She also highlights her favorite attractions, such as It’s a Small World and Pirates of the Caribbean. This is significant because it shows she is not an outsider critiquing Disney culture; rather, she is part of the audience. She appreciates the parks, the storytelling, and the emotional impact of the experience.

Sheralyn makes it clear that she holds no resentment toward Disney. She believes that if the company chooses to acknowledge her contributions, that would be great. If not, she is content knowing the truth of what she wrote. Her late husband, Harrel, played a crucial role in reinforcing her confidence, encouraging her to speak openly about her experiences.

Harrel’s support was instrumental in her decision to share her story publicly, and after his passing, doing so became even more meaningful to her.

Final Thoughts: Why Sheralyn’s Story Still Resonates

Sheralyn Silverstein’s story serves as a reminder that some of the most famous lines in culture come from unexpected places. The phrase “If you can dream it, you can do it” originated in an advertising campaign, then made its way into the Disney universe, taking on a life of its own. This transformation is what makes the story so compelling. It highlights not only creativity but also the importance of truth, credit, and recognizing the people whose names often go unacknowledged for their contributions.

For Disney fans, this adds depth to a cherished piece of Epcot history. For writers and creators, it’s a powerful reminder to take ownership of their work and protect their names. Ultimately, for anyone in need of inspiration, the message resonates: big ideas matter, and so do the people behind them. Thank you, Sheralyn, for creating a line that has become timeless in the hearts and minds of Disney park fans!

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