The Northeast Florida chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society held its 35th annual Dinner of Champions last Thursday, Feb. 8 to honor St. John & Partners staff and Chairman and CEO Dan St. John for their ongoing contributions to the organization’s cause.
Held at TPC Sawgrass, the dinner was attended by more than 160 guests and contributors, raising nearly $150,000 to benefit the National MS Society. The event annually honors local philanthropists for their contributions to the community, presenting each with the MS Silver Hope Award. Since the inaugural event in 1983, the Dinner of Champions has raised more than $1.7 million for the National MS Society.
“I am truly honored to be recognized by the National MS Society and the North Florida Chapter, and I’m proud to accept this award on behalf of our entire staff,” St. John said. “The National MS Society is truly making a difference in the lives of people dealing with MS, and I’m most proud of the successful fundraising efforts to support this wonderful cause.”
A Jacksonville-based advertising and public relations agency, St. John & Partners has worked with several noteworthy businesses, including Zaxby’s, Southeastern Grocers, Marriott International, Daytona International Speedway and The Florida Lottery. Chosen for their Kindology community giving program, the firm’s staff devote much of their time to charitable giving and community outreach.
“Dan and St. John & Partners have been incredible contributors to philanthropy all over North Florida, and specifically the National MS Society,” Director of Foundation Relations Corrina Madrid said.
The night’s program, emceed by Action News Jax Anchor Paige Kelton, also featured guest speaker Mike Martin, the head baseball coach at Florida State University and a longtime friend of St. John.
“The night is about Dan and what he means to the community,” Martin said. “He is a guy who is genuinely interested in making other people’s lives important, and he is a special man. I’m proud to be here for him.”
