Magic may have pioneered savvy off‑court investments—turning NBA paychecks into a business empire—but Cookie’s brand of social investment has quietly become their family’s most visible legacy, is just as socially active, and finds her happiness in working for something noble. No wonder that even in Magic’s absence, she did not let the celebrations for a higher cause fade away.
The joy was unmistakable during a recent celebration, marking the second year of The Village Scholarship (TVS) program. If you haven’t heard about it yet, it’s a partial scholarship focused on elementary education, created to ease the financial burden on families and foster a sense of belonging in school communities. Specifically, it supports students of color from low-income households. TVS launched its pilot cohort in January 2024, awarding grants of up to $25,000 per student to 12 first‑grade scholars.
“We are happy to support Private School Village and this new important scholarship program, The Village Scholarship. It helps pave a brighter future for Black and brown elementary school students,” the couple said in an official statement from Private School Village. Fast forward to now, and Cookie had every reason to celebrate as the initiative stepped into its second year.
“This afternoon’s intimate gathering hosted by Cookie Johnson and Lizzy Mathis was so lovely! We gathered to celebrate The Village Scholarship—now in its second year, supporting 14 students across 9 private schools with an investment of $340,000. We want to grow this program as it’s needed now more than ever,” read a heartfelt post from Private School Village.
Speaking of Private School Village, it is a nonprofit powerhouse behind the whole effort. Focused on families of color in more than 65 Los Angeles private schools, their mission has been gaining steady momentum. According to Black Enterprise, the organization rang in its fifth anniversary in style, with the PSV Sneaker Soiree on November 4, 2023.
The prom-meets-sneakers fundraiser brought in over 500 celebrities, entrepreneurs, and allies, raising more than $350,000 for the newly-launched TVS. And with Cookie Johnson leading the way, it’s clear this scholarship isn’t just growing—it’s thriving. Yep, do not mistake Magic Johnson’s absence from the recent TVS celebration as his lack of interest in a higher cause. Let’s not forget he recently stepped up in a big way for an HBCU.
Magic Johnson’s big donation to Xavier University
The former Los Angeles Lakers star has always believed in lifting others up. Magic Johnson has championed HBCUs for decades, from Grambling State gifts to his recent Xavier donation. Magc’s putting his money where his heart is. On May 9, 2025, the NBA Hall of Famer and successful entrepreneur pledged $500,000 to Xavier University of Louisiana. This powerful contribution is set to boost scholarships and academic programs, helping future students chase their dreams just like he once did.
What made the day even more special was the reason behind the event: honoring Dr. Norman C. Francis, a trailblazer who reshaped Xavier’s legacy. As the first president of color of the university and a champion of education and civil rights, Dr. Francis has inspired generations. At 94, he continues to leave a mark that’s hard to put into words.
Dr. Francis’s journey with Xavier began as a student. He returned later, taking on various roles before stepping into the presidency in 1968. Over 47 years of dedicated service, he didn’t just help the school grow in size—he helped define its spirit. From building new structures to shaping the curriculum, his touch is seen across the campus. Today, Xavier ranks among the top for producing Black professionals in science, pharmacy, and medicine.
To celebrate his legacy, the university revealed a bronze statue of him at St. Katharine Drexel Chapel. The weather didn’t matter—Rain fell on New Orleans, but couldn’t dampen the crowd gathered to unveil Dr. Francis’s statue. Magic Johnson summed it up perfectly: “I’m so blessed to know him… all the people you’ve helped become successful.” Even in Magic’s absence at TVS, his Xavier gift underscores the Johnsons’ shared mission: education empowerment. So even away from Cookie during the recent TVS celebration, Magic remains close to the cause that matters.
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