Delaware State University hit a milestone on a recent Saturday night as its “Scholarship Ball” achieved record-breaking success, raising over $3 million in a single night. The event, held at the packed Chase Center on the Riverfront in Wilmington with more than 1,200 attendees, showcased a star-studded guest list.
NBA Hall of Famer Earvin “Magic Johnson, R&B group SWV, and DJ Jazzy Jeff added glamour to the evening. Steve Ewing, an automotive executive and a 1983 graduate of what was then Delaware State College, made a historic contribution by presenting the university with a generous $1 million gift—the largest ever from an alumnus in 132 years.
We're so excited to have had Earvin "Magic" Johnson attend this year's Delaware State University annual scholarship ball! pic.twitter.com/3p4gijGY0D
— delstatedining (@delstatedining) December 11, 2023
In a press release, Ewing shared his gratitude, saying, “My parents gave me all the tools to be successful, but I am a better man, a better person because of Delaware State University.” Currently residing in Atlanta, Ewing, a New Jersey native, also chairs the university’s Athletic Transformation Committee and issued a challenge to fellow alumni to match his philanthropic gesture.
Magic Johnson’s Generosity: A $1.6 Million Boost for Delaware State University
Magic Johnson, not to be outdone, contributed $600,000 and pledged an additional $1 million for the ongoing growth of Delaware State University. His company, Magic Johnson Enterprises, is part of the “SodexoMagic” joint venture, playing a role in providing food services to the Dover institution.
Ewing’s call for support resonated beyond individuals. Sallie Mae, a student loan lender, responded by matching his $1 million gift with a research endowment. The $1 million endowment is dedicated to addressing the college completion gap and will support a three-year “Persistence and Completion Pilot Program.” This initiative aims to identify and overcome barriers to degree completion, particularly for underserved and underrepresented students.
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John Witter, CEO of Sallie Mae, emphasized their mission-aligned partnership with DSU, stating, “Our mission-aligned partnership with DSU aims to remove barriers to degree completion so that more students have the resources they need to cross the finish line.” The collaboration reflects a commitment to advancing higher education opportunities and ensuring student success at Delaware State University.