My good friend, Derrick Mayes, was recognized this afternoon as the Pajama Program’s “Humanitarian of the Year” for his terrific philanthropic efforts at a wonderful luncheon at the Pierre Hotel in  New York (he asked me to introduce him at the event).

Derrick was honored along with actress Susan Lucci (who looks amazing at 62) and the mother of Chris Rock.   The Pajama Program “delivers warm sleepwear and nurturing books children in need.”  This was my first time learning about the program — I was very impressed with their terrific efforts to help so many children across the country.

Derrick is now the CEO of Executive Action’s Sports and Entertainment division (they’ve asked me to serve on their advisory board).  D graduated from Notre Dame as their all-time leading receiver, then played 6 years in the NFL, with the Packers and Steelers.

My congrats go out to Derrick and the other honorees as well as to the terrific Pajama Program.