Alumni Story

Vickie Dishman

Found her voice. Sharing her story.

Vickie Dishman is a songwriter and recording artist whose journey reflects what can happen when creativity finds the right community. Through Hero’s Encore, she moved from quietly finding her own voice to releasing original music as Fake Clouds, Fake Sky and helping other Heroes find theirs.

This journey made possible through our partnership with

The Mission

Rooted in a tradition of serving the military community since 1966, Bellevue University and its Military Veteran Services Center are committed to supporting veterans, service members, and military-connected individuals through education, personalized resources, meaningful connections, and opportunities that help them achieve their personal, academic, and professional goals.

Together, we…

Bring communities of service together—creating connection, building skills, fostering creativity, and opening new pathways to purpose for veterans, transitioning service members, first responders, and military-connected individuals.

Vickie's Journey

When I came to Hero’s Encore, I could barely lift my voice above a whisper. Now I’m writing and recording my own music and helping others find their voice, too.

When I came to Hero’s Encore, I could barely lift my voice above a whisper. Now I’m writing and recording my own music—and helping others find their voices, too.

Milestones

  • Completed the inaugural Peer to Performer cohort in 2025
  • Wrote, performed, recorded, and released “Serpentine” and “Coyote Boy” currently streaming
  • Performs regularly at venues and community events throughout the Omaha area
  • Co-instructs Stage 2 Songwriting while continuing on the Encore Artist Development path

Help more Heroes find their Encore

Your support provides instruments, instruction, and life-changing opportunities to Heroes like ours.

Listen

Serpentine

Coyote Boy

Hearts & Harmony Gala Testimony / “Serpentine” Debut:

Gallery

Hero’s Encore gave me a place to grow as an artist. Now I have the opportunity to use what I’ve learned to encourage others as they begin creating music of their own.