Gainesville Community Comes Together in Support of NIL for Good
Gainesville, Florida (March 17, 2025) – University of Florida (UF) starting quarterback DJ Lagway hosted the DJ Lagway Foundation Kickoff Dinner on March 10 and will donate $50,000 in support of UF Health community programs. Thanks to generous donors, the monies raised will assist UF Health in providing essential resources for local youth.
“Growing up, my family has always prioritized giving back to the community, and we’ve seen the impact it can make,” Lagway said. “Through NIL, I have the chance to be part of that change, to use this opportunity for good. And I’m so thankful for everyone who joined us at the foundation kickoff dinner. Seeing this event come to life, and knowing how the funds we raised will benefit the local community is just the start of what we can accomplish together.”
The event was organized in collaboration with NETWORK, Lagway’s talent management and marketing agency. The firm played an integral role in developing his philanthropic vision and supporting his efforts to use NIL for good.
“DJ has always been a leader, offering kindness and uplifting others, whether on or off the field," said Michaela Simon, VP of Content & Operations at NETWORK. “His foundation is a natural extension of his character; through NIL, this remarkable young man has been able to take his passion and hard work and turn it into something with a lasting impact.”
The Foundation Kickoff Dinner at Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille resulted in an impressive showing from the Gainesville and University of Florida communities. In addition to executives from UF Health, presenting sponsor Morgan & Morgan, and touchdown sponsor Clarity Wealth, a number of current football players were in attendance alongside Gator greats Steve Spurrier, Brandon Spikes, Jordan Scarlett, Earnest Graham, and Event Organizer Johnny Townsend. The UF marching band, cheerleaders, and Gator mascot were also present, creating an energetic atmosphere in support of the foundation.
More than 20 Lagway relatives joined the event as DJ Lagway and his mother, Niki Lagway, spoke about their family’s deep-rooted commitment to giving back–a value passed down from Lagway’s grandmother.
Guests witnessed an on-site recording of Lagway’s interview on the Stadium & Gale podcast, bid on items in the silent auction, and participated in a spirited live auction led by auctioneer Jon Foege. A highlight of the evening was when performance painter Alex “Revel” Ruiz created a 10-minute mural of Lagway, which sold for $9,000; another piece fetched nearly $7,000 for the cause.
The overwhelming support for the event underscored a shared dedication to community impact, setting a strong foundation for the work Lagway aims to accomplish through his initiative.
For those looking to get involved, donations are still being accepted at DJLagway2.com.
Assets: DJ LAGWAY PHOTOS & LOGO
Gainesville, Florida (March 17, 2025) – University of Florida (UF) starting quarterback DJ Lagway hosted the DJ Lagway Foundation Kickoff Dinner on March 10 and will donate $50,000 in support of UF Health community programs. Thanks to generous donors, the monies raised will assist UF Health in providing essential resources for local youth.
“Growing up, my family has always prioritized giving back to the community, and we’ve seen the impact it can make,” Lagway said. “Through NIL, I have the chance to be part of that change, to use this opportunity for good. And I’m so thankful for everyone who joined us at the foundation kickoff dinner. Seeing this event come to life, and knowing how the funds we raised will benefit the local community is just the start of what we can accomplish together.”
The event was organized in collaboration with NETWORK, Lagway’s talent management and marketing agency. The firm played an integral role in developing his philanthropic vision and supporting his efforts to use NIL for good.
“DJ has always been a leader, offering kindness and uplifting others, whether on or off the field," said Michaela Simon, VP of Content & Operations at NETWORK. “His foundation is a natural extension of his character; through NIL, this remarkable young man has been able to take his passion and hard work and turn it into something with a lasting impact.”
The Foundation Kickoff Dinner at Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille resulted in an impressive showing from the Gainesville and University of Florida communities. In addition to executives from UF Health, presenting sponsor Morgan & Morgan, and touchdown sponsor Clarity Wealth, a number of current football players were in attendance alongside Gator greats Steve Spurrier, Brandon Spikes, Jordan Scarlett, Earnest Graham, and Event Organizer Johnny Townsend. The UF marching band, cheerleaders, and Gator mascot were also present, creating an energetic atmosphere in support of the foundation.
More than 20 Lagway relatives joined the event as DJ Lagway and his mother, Niki Lagway, spoke about their family’s deep-rooted commitment to giving back–a value passed down from Lagway’s grandmother.
Guests witnessed an on-site recording of Lagway’s interview on the Stadium & Gale podcast, bid on items in the silent auction, and participated in a spirited live auction led by auctioneer Jon Foege. A highlight of the evening was when performance painter Alex “Revel” Ruiz created a 10-minute mural of Lagway, which sold for $9,000; another piece fetched nearly $7,000 for the cause.
The overwhelming support for the event underscored a shared dedication to community impact, setting a strong foundation for the work Lagway aims to accomplish through his initiative.
For those looking to get involved, donations are still being accepted at DJLagway2.com.
Assets: DJ LAGWAY PHOTOS & LOGO
