Earvin “Magic” Johnson has stepped up to the plate for one HBCU in a major way.
The NBA legend has pledged $500,000 to Xavier University in New Orleans, Louisiana. The historically Black university was founded in 1925 and celebrated their 100-year anniversary earlier this month.
Johnson has thrived in life after basketball. He has been involved in many business ventures, including being minority owner of the Washington Commanders (NFL) Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB) and Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA). Outside of sports, Johnson owns several Starbucks, T.G.I. Friday’s, and FatBurger locations throughout the country.
The donation from Johnson was made in honor of Xavier President Emeritus Dr. Norman C. Francis.
“The mark of a great man and who shows up. Because the man that you are, all the great things that you’ve done in your stellar career. And all the people that you helped. You became successful through your great leadership at Xavier… In your honor, I’m going to give Xavier $500,000,” said Johnson during a gala event.
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Dr. Francis served as the president of the university for 47 years, almost half its existence. Xavier is the only historically Black and Catholic university in the nation, according to their website.
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The Magic Johnson Foundation is a non-profit organization founded by the basketball legend nearly 35 years ago. It focuses on developing and supporting community-based organizations that address the health, education, and social needs of diverse urban communities. The foundation’s primary focus is on HIV/AIDS awareness, education, and prevention, along with supporting community empowerment centers and scholarships.