Art Meets Athletics in Celebration of African American Achievement at St. Jude Spirit of the Dream

l to r:  Artist Derek Fordjour, Grizzlies head coach Lionel Hollins honored for pioneering work and philanthropy

Acclaimed artist Derek Fordjour and former National Basketball Association (NBA) player and Memphis Grizzlies head coach Lionel Hollins were honored at Graceland last weekend with the St. Jude Spirit of the Dream award for their philanthropic support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital^®.

The evening, which hit a new fundraising record of more than $260,000, was a full circle moment for both honorees, who each have deep ties to St. Jude and its hometown, Memphis.

Fordjour, whose work is displayed in galleries worldwide, grew up playing on the grounds near the St. Jude campus adjacent to what was then St. Joseph Hospital, and was inspired by the art, mural and prints he saw at St. Jude. Later in life, he created and auctioned an original work of art with all proceeds donated to St. Jude.

“When I think about honoring the dream of St. Jude founder Danny Thomas, I think about his spirit of belief and faith,” said Fordjour. “That is what St. Jude does every day for the families who enter its doors. As supporters, we are offering hope and I am grateful to be a part of that story.”

For Hollins, both Memphis and St. Jude have been central to his storied career as the head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies, where he became the winningest coach in franchise history. He is also the founder of a mentoring program for underprivileged local youth and an ambassador for St. Jude.

“I’m privileged to use my gifts to give back to others and support the lifesaving mission at St. Jude,” said Hollins. “We are all blessed with talents, and it’s important that we use our gifts to help children reach their full potential and destinies.”

St. Jude Spirit of the Dream celebrates the achievements of African Americans who have made significant contributions to Memphis and beyond while embodying the spirit of the St. Jude mission.

“The mission and work of St. Jude reminds us there is a greater purpose that transcends borders and boundaries, language and land: Finding cures for some of the worst diseases that threaten kids’ lives,” said Tanya Frey, Mid-South Territory Vice President for ALSAC, the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude. “Thanks to the dedication of our Spirit of the Dream honorees, St. Jude can tackle these challenges with determination and focus to help kids and families around the world.”