Hillsborough Community College was proud to present the 8th annual Black, Brown and College Bound Summit at the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina. The keynote speaker was none other than Earvin “Magic” Johnson. Johnson was able to inspire the crowd at the luncheon during his speech. By sharing stories of his successful business ventures, such as his movie theatres and chain of Starbucks, he was able to show how he built a successful range of businesses. He also spoke momentarily about the blessings of his basketball career and his life after testing positive for HIV. Johnson also held a press conference for the media to go into detail about his ability to go from the basketball court to the boardroom.

  During the press conference, Johnson told the media how impressed he was with Hillsborough Community College’s support for Black and Latino male students, adding, “minority men want to go to college, they want to advance at life.”

  Johnson explained how proud he was to be a black businessman in America. He also highlighted the achievements of black men in America. Magic talked about some of his heroes growing up who were black businessmen and not just athletes. He saw people such as urban business owners as heroes.

  He encouraged minorities to receive an education and to give back to the community and mentor someone in need.

  He credited Hillsborough Community College President Ken Atwater for showing the minorities of the college’s student body how to accomplish their goals. He said that the ones that are successful need to share the blueprint to their success.

  Johnson explained how he went from the hardwood to having a good track record in the business world. “The same work ethic, the same preparation, the same focus and discipline I had on the court, I took to the boardroom.” By adding, “Who knew I could be part owner of the Lakers and now part owner of the Dodgers,” he provided a clear example of his work ethic.

  Johnson has also been successful taking brands such as the Starbucks chain, “into the hood” and making the business thrive in urban America. He is also owner of Exomagic, a food service business that has recently obtained a contract to serve meals to Disney and the Minnesota Twins, among other companies.

  Johnson wrapped up the press conference by explaining how to be successful. “Whatever your dream is you have to stay on track and you can’t listen to the people that tell you no. I had a lot of people tell me no. I had people telling me I can’t play in the NBA, and I loved it. I loved proving them wrong.”