Hollywood, FL – Earvin “Magic” Johnson was honored with the Joe DiMaggio 2015 American Icon Award on Thursday, January 15 to a sellout crowd of approximately 1,000 guests at the Diplomat Resort & Spa.
“Magic Johnson was a perfect choice to receive the Joe DiMaggio American Icon Award,” said Kevin Janser, Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer, “With his basketball career, business accomplishments, philanthropic commitments and his exceptional charisma, it was easy to showcase to our community why he truly is ‘Magic.’ ”
The Joe DiMaggio American Icon Award is presented annually to an individual who represents the highest values for which Joe DiMaggio stood. President Bill Clinton received the first American Icon Award in 2014. The event is a fundraiser to benefit Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, the leading children’s hospital in Broward and Palm Beach Counties.
Jeff Conine, “Mr. Marlin,” served as emcee for the evening. Mike Fernandez, businessman, philanthropist and author, introduced Johnson. Baseball Hall of Fame legends Andre Dawson and Orlando Cepeda were also in attendance.
Johnson demonstrated his skill as a fundraiser, hosting several impromptu auctions which captivated attendees and collectively raised $250,000. Event attendees enjoyed Johnson informally chatting with members of the audience and posing for “selfies.”
Johnson is regarded as one of the greatest basketball players in National Basketball League history. Following a successful NBA career, winning five league championships, three NBA Finals MVP Awards and 12 selections to the NBA All-Star team, he founded the Magic Johnson Foundation. In addition to his incredible basketball career, he is also recognized for his entrepreneurial skills, business acumen, and life-changing philanthropy.
