Earvin “Magic” Johnson, an NBA icon and Michigan State University alumnus, has contributed an incredible $14 million to the MSU Medical Center in a gesture of compassion and community service. The generous donation aims to enhance the hospital’s neonatal and pediatric care facilities, ensuring a better future for Michigan’s most vulnerable patients—newborns and young children in need of critical care.
The generous investment is part of the university’s larger “Healing Starts Here” campaign, which is a multimillion-dollar initiative to improve clinical facilities, pediatric research, and family-focused support services. Johnson’s commitment is the single largest gift to the campaign to date, and it is expected to spark more philanthropic support from alumni and community partners.
During a poignant press event at the hospital’s pediatric wing, Johnson, who has deep ties in Lansing, expressed his desire to give back to the city that shaped him. “Michigan State offered me the skills I needed to pursue my aspirations. Now is the time to give back in a way that ensures every child in this state has a fighting chance from the moment they are born,” Johnson said. “This is about saving lives, uplifting families, and making sure every parent knows they’re not alone in their most vulnerable moments.”
The $14 million gift will go directly toward updating and expanding the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), creating a cutting-edge pediatric diagnostic center, and funding vital research into premature delivery, children’s diseases, and long-term care outcomes. In addition, funding will be dedicated to building welcoming, pleasant areas for families, particularly those who must spend long periods of time in the hospital.
The new pediatric care center, now known as the Magic Johnson Center for Neonatal and Pediatric Excellence, is set to open in 2026. The center will have private NICU suites, advanced pediatric surgery capabilities, child-focused therapy rooms, and expanded facilities for parental housing and emotional support services.
MSU Medical Center officials were quick to applaud Johnson’s gift. “Magic’s donation is a game changer for our hospital and Michigan’s children,” stated Dr. Angela Martin, Chief of Pediatric Medicine. “This gift allows us to expand our capabilities and care for the smallest and sickest among us with even greater precision, compassion, and excellence.”