Magic Johnson Inspires Wayne State with tales of Discipline and Partnership
NBA legend and successful entrepreneur Magic Johnson recently visited Wayne State university, speaking at a summit and connecting with students, athletes, and staff to celebrate university volunteers and highlight a new buisness partnership. The visit followed a conversation with WSU President Bierschbach.
Johnson shared a formative childhood story illustrating the importance of dedication and thoroughness. He recalled working alongside his father in the family’s trash hauling business, and a notably cold day where he attempted to half-heartedly complete his task. His father intervened, demanding he finish the job properly, a moment Johnson credits with instilling a lifelong commitment to excellence. “That’s when my life changed. Everything I did from there improved,” Johnson stated, adding that he strives to bring that same disciplined approach to his team endeavors.
Beyond basketball, Johnson has built a diverse business empire encompassing movie theaters, restaurants, health clubs, and ownership stakes in professional sports teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Washington Commanders, all managed under Magic Johnson Enterprises. He attributes his success to a focused approach, strategic hiring, and a strong emphasis on accountability. “Just like any organization, we’ve got to have great people…willing to work together,” he explained. “I pride myself on hiring the right people, paying them and then stepping back to let them do their job. And then the last thing is about accountability. I’m big on accountability.”
The visit also served to acknowledge the partnership between Wayne State and sodexomagic, which began in July. SodexoMagic is now providing catering, food, and facilities management for Towers Café, WSU’s main residential dining hall, and also other campus retail locations. Dr. Laurie M. Lauzon Clabo, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating the aim is “to create a dining program that exceeds expectations and reflects the cultural, dietary and nutritional needs of the full scope of our diverse, energetic university.”
Johnson took time to meet with SodexoMagic employees, approximately 350 student athletes, 20 coaches and staff, and members of the Wayne State Student Senate at the Wayne State Fieldhouse, further solidifying the connection between the university and the new partnership.
