Stories from the past

Take a walk down Magellan's Memory Lane with these stories and photos from events we've participated in, opportunities we've had, people we have had the pleasure to meet.

MAGELLAN COMANDEERS BEARS' TURF

A hands-on football day for Magellan staff, clients and families

On October 23, nearly 50 staff members, clients and their families from Magellan Corporation gathered at the iconic Halas Hall—home of the Chicago Bears—for an event of football-skills clinics, camaraderie and good eats.

The gathering opened on the an indoor practice field, where attendees rotated through a range of fun, hands-on drills including passing, defensive alignment, route-running, field-goal kicking, punt returns and  line work. Two former Bears players, Daniel Brown and Christian Jones, were on hand to lead and coach the participants.

Daniel Brown, a tight end who entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2015, went on to appear with the Ravens, Bears and Jets. His career totals include 46 catches for 449 yards and 2 receiving touchdowns. Christian Jones, a linebacker who entered the league in 2014, spent the first part of his career with the Bears and through multiple seasons logged solid production (297 solo tackles, 167 assists, 7 sacks). What we're saying is, these gents know how to ball!

The mixture of adults and children made this a lively, fun and inclusive event.

After the on-field portion, everyone gathered inside at Halas Hall’s event space to enjoy hearty southern fare as the crowd watched the Minnesota Vikings vs. Los Angeles Chargers on the big screen. To wrap up the day, guests had the opportunity to get footballs autographed by Brown and Jones—caps off to a memorable clinic.

We’re proud to offer events like these that bring together our Magellan community—staff, families and clients—for learning, fun and connection. Many thanks to Daniel Brown, Christian Jones and the Bears staff for their time and presentation, and to all who participated and made the afternoon a success.

A Night of Wonder and Gratitude at the Field Museum

Magellan Corporation receives the Corporate Philanthropy Award

On Saturday, October 18, Magellan Corporation was deeply honored to receive the Corporate Philanthropy Award at the 2025 Field Museum Gala. To be recognized by one of Chicago’s most cherished institutions— and one that has inspired generations — is a privilege we will not soon forget.

For more than a century, the Field Museum has been a cornerstone of Chicago’s cultural and scientific life, with its excellence renowned worldwide. Its vast collections and groundbreaking research connect us to the natural world and to one another, inviting visitors of all ages to explore how life, culture, and history intertwine. For countless Chicagoans, a field trip to the Museum is a rite of passage — a first moment of wonder standing beneath a towering dinosaur or appreciating artifacts from civilizations across the globe. Those experiences leave an imprint that lasts a lifetime, sparking curiosity and appreciation for the world around us.

At Magellan, we believe in supporting the institutions that make our city and our world stronger, wiser, and more connected. The Field Museum embodies all of that and more — blending scientific discovery with community engagement, conservation, and education. We are proud to play even a small role in helping sustain its remarkable mission.

This recognition belongs as much to our dedicated staff, clients, and partners as it does to us. Their generosity and belief in giving back make everything we do possible. We offer sincere thanks to the organizations that came to celebrate with us, and others who could not attend, but contributed in our honor. From all of us at Magellan Corporation, our heartfelt thanks to the Field Museum for its extraordinary contributions to science, culture, and learning — and for reminding us that curiosity is one of the greatest gifts we can share.

Kicking Off Connection with the Houston Dash

An evening celebrating teamwork and partnership

On Tuesday, September 23, Magellan welcomed about 90 guests to Steak 48 in Houston for a dinner with customers, business partners, Magellan staff, and members of the Houston Dash organization.

Speakers included Jessica O’Neill, President of Business Operations; Angela Hucles Mangano, President of Women’s Soccer; and head coach Fabrice Gautrat. They were joined by players Katie Lind, Jane Campbell, Avery Patterson, and Michelle Alozie, who shared insights from their careers and lives on and off the field.

Hucles Mangano, a former U.S. national team midfielder, joined the Dash to lead the club’s sporting vision, while Gautrat brought experience from coaching roles in the NWSL. Defender Katie Lind has anchored the Dash back line since 2020, and goalkeeper Jane Campbell is a longtime U.S. national team pool player. Forward Michelle Alozie balances her Dash career with cancer research and international play for Nigeria, and Avery Patterson is a rising star who recently scored the fastest goal in team history.

Conversation during the evening touched on leadership, performance, balancing life as professional athletes -- particularly for the players who have children, and even lighter moments like how they manage practices and games with pet care.

The evening highlighted the strength of Magellan’s partnership with the Dash, giving guests a chance to connect with the team and with one another in a meaningful way. Oh! And, as always, they took home a little swag. The Dash loaded everyone up with team gear.

Rolling up our sleeves

Employees donate 27 units to help patients nationwide

On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, Magellan and our sister company Hudson Shipping teamed up with the American Red Cross for an on-site blood drive. The need for blood never stops—every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs it, whether for surgery, cancer treatment, accident recovery, or chronic illness.

Throughout the day, 26 employees volunteered to donate. Together, we collected 19 whole blood products and 8 Power Red products from 4 donors—27 units in total. Since each unit can be separated into red cells, platelets, and plasma, these donations have the potential to help dozens of patients in need.

Employees from both companies showed up all day long, some donating for the very first time, others already seasoned regulars. A few colleagues volunteered to help check people in, hand out snacks, and make sure donors felt comfortable.

It was inspiring to see so many people participate. The Red Cross supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood, and drives like this are what keep hospitals stocked so that life-saving procedures don’t have to be delayed.

Thank you to everyone who donated or volunteered and to the Red Cross team for making it simple for us to support the health and resilience of our community.

We couldn’t Wait Wait for Wilco!

Magellan Hits the Right Note at the 2025 Blue Jean Gala

On August 9, Magellan traded business casual and hard hats for blue jeans to celebrate one of Chicago’s favorite cultural events — the Old Town School of Folk Music’s annual Blue Jean Gala. As a Premier Sponsor, we joined hundreds of guests for an evening that blended great food, lively conversation, and a roof-raising performance from hometown legends Wilco.

The night kicked off with a roaming feast from beloved neighborhood restaurants, followed by a warm and witty welcome from Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me! host Peter Sagal. Old Town School CEO devotees joined the Palm Court Strut before Wilco took the stage and delivered the kind of set that made everyone feel “right here, right now.”

We were proud to host 16 friends and partners at our seats —and prouder still to help raise over $1.2 million to support Old Town School’s mission of bringing people together to learn, create, and share in the joy of music and dance.

From sports arenas to community stages, Magellan backs the organizations that make Chicagoland vibrant. The Blue Jean Gala proved once again that when music, generosity, and community come together, the result is unforgettable.

FIRED UP AT MISERICORDIA

Pro soccer players, Misericordia residents, and zillions of smiles

On Thursday, August 7, Magellan Corporation partnered with Chicago Fire FC to bring a special soccer clinic to Misericordia Home in Chicago. Held in their gymnasium, the late-afternoon event welcomed approximately 60 residents, volunteers, and staff for an engaging and energetic session.

Fire goalkeepers Chris Brady and Jeff Gal led the activities, guiding participants through skill-building exercises, footwork challenges, and interactive practice. Brady, a Naperville native, joined the Fire Academy in 2017 and signed a homegrown contract in 2020. Since then, he has become a key player for the team, earning recognition for his performances. Gal, originally from Chicago, returned to the Fire in 2023 after a successful career in Sweden, bringing a wealth of experience to the squad.

Adding to the excitement was Sparky, the Fire's mascot, who engaged with attendees and brought silliness, antics, and no shortage of photo ops -- to the delight of the men and women of Misericordia.

Misericordia, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, provides a community of care for its residents. The clinic offered a special opportunity for residents to interact with professional athletes in a lively, hands‑on environment, complementing the broad range of activities already offered on the campus of this superior Chicago organization.

Through its sponsorship of Chicago Fire FC, Magellan is proud to connect its partners and the community in experiences that celebrate teamwork, sport, and connection.

"Sort of Best Friends"

Chloe Lewis Named Magellan / Chicago Sky Player for the Day

On August 3, 2025, eleven-year-old Chloe Lewis of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago experienced something she’ll never forget: being named the Magellan / Chicago Sky Player for the Day.

Chloe and her family arrived in style, stepping out of a limousine to join the Sky for an afternoon that was all about her. She toured the practice facility, shared lunch with the team, and even signed an official contract in a mock press conference that sealed her spot as “Player for the Day.” Outfitted in her own personalized jersey, Chloe was welcomed as a true teammate.

That evening, the magic only grew. Chloe was introduced with the team over the arena loudspeaker, her name lit up on the Jumbotron, and she took her place on the bench right next to W sensation Angel Reese—who, sidelined with an injury, spent much of the game chatting with Chloe like an old friend. Though the Sky didn’t come away with the win, Chloe left with something better: a memory that will last a lifetime.

Adding to the celebration, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago were recognized on center court, receiving a $5,000 donation from the Chicago Sky on behalf of Magellan Corporation. For Chloe, who has been a proud Club member since age five, it was a powerful moment to see her Club honored alongside her.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago’s mission is to enable all young people—especially those who need it most—to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Chloe embodies that mission, and Magellan is proud to support BGCC and its incredible members through our sponsorship of the Chicago Sky.

As Chloe herself put it after the game, she and Angel Reese are now “sort of best friends.” And that’s the kind of joy, connection, and inspiration we hope to spark with every Player for the Day experience.

A Night of Impact and Community with Gilda’s Club Chicago

Magellan helps support vital free programs for people affected by cancer

On June 18, guests gathered at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel for Gilda’s Club Chicago’s 27th Annual Awards Dinner—an evening that blended heartfelt stories, humor, music -- LOTS of music!! -- and community support for a great cause.

This year’s event honored longtime NBC Chicago News anchor Allison Rosati for her work in the community, and featured leadership from Honorary Chair Dr. Leonidas Platanias, Event Chairs Ann and Thom Serafin, and emcee Stefan Holt. Guests heard powerful remarks from Greg Frasz, a prostate cancer survivor who shared how Gilda’s Club helped him feel less alone.

By the end of the night, more than $700,000 had been raised to support the Club’s mission of providing free emotional and social support to anyone affected by cancer. That funding helps sustain roughly 250 monthly programs—including support groups, counseling, healthy lifestyle classes, family activities, and more.

Magellan was proud to sponsor the event and to celebrate the contributions of our colleague Lisa Wortman, who serves on the Gilda’s Club Chicago Board of Directors. Lisa’s involvement reflects Magellan’s ongoing commitment to organizations that strengthen our community.

From the moving speeches to the final auction paddle-raise, the dinner was a reminder of how powerful it is when people come together to care for one another. We’re proud to stand with Gilda’s Club Chicago in helping ensure no one faces cancer unsupported.

Ties That Hold: A Night with the Sky and Gretchen Evans

Magellan hosts an evening of shared strength, connection, and collective momentum

On Tuesday, June 3, Magellan Corporation welcomed 64 guests—including staff, clients, and friends—for a memorable evening at Steak 48 in Chicago. The gathering marked 11 years of partnership with the Chicago Sky and featured a keynote from retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major Gretchen Evans. The evening was emceed by Magellan’s own Adam Shaw.

Evans, a decorated combat veteran and leader of Team UNBROKEN in Bear Grylls’ World’s Toughest Race, shared reflections on resilience and interdependence. Central to her message was the concept of the “Rope Team”—a system where members lean on one another, not only for support, but to lift and be lifted in return. She drew a powerful connection between that mindset and the Sky’s own culture, where players rely on each other—and on people outside the locker room—to keep pushing forward.

The event also celebrated the Chicago Sky, a team entering a new chapter with rising stars Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso. Reese, a force from LSU, and Cardoso, the 6'7" South Carolina standout, bring fresh energy to a team known for grit and cohesion.

Magellan’s commitment to women-centered partnerships, including its continued support of the Sky, reflects a broader mission: building meaningful alliances that empower, engage, and grow communities. Events like this are an extension of that philosophy.

The night was about more than recognition—it was about connection. A full room, shared stories, and the simple but lasting act of showing up for one another. That’s the Rope Team. That’s Magellan.

Reach for the Sky

An inside look at team spirit, shared stories, and community connection

On Tuesday, May 20, Magellan Corporation hosted a spirited luncheon at the Hyatt Regency Deerfield, bringing together 150 guests—including clients, colleagues, friends, and family—for an afternoon of connection, conversation, and community engagement.

The event featured the Chicago Sky, Magellan's longtime WNBA partner, and welcomed students and staff from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago, the designated Magellan/Chicago Sky Nonprofit Partner.

The Chicago Sky, established in 2006, have been a powerful force in the WNBA, securing their first championship title in 2021. Under the guidance of new Head Coach Tyler Marsh—who joined the team in late 2024 after roles with the Las Vegas Aces and Indiana Pacers—the Sky are focused on building a team culture rooted in accountability, development, and heart.

General Manager Jeff Pagliocca and Coach Marsh kicked off the luncheon with a behind-the-scenes "chalk talk," offering insight into team strategy and introducing the players and coaching staff. From there, the Sky players fanned out across the ballroom, joining tables to chat with guests, sign autographs, and pose for photos.

The energy in the room was high—especially for the kids in attendance, who had the chance to engage with professional athletes up close and personal. It was a reminder of the positive impact that access and opportunity can have on young people.

Magellan’s commitment to building strong partnerships came through clearly in every moment of the afternoon. By connecting professional sports, community organizations, and business partners in one room, the event underscored how much more we can accomplish when we come together—with purpose and heart.

STEEL, HOT CAKES & THE MAGELLAN WAY

Customer appreciation -- sticky and delicious!

At Magellan we hustle, we ship and we deal,
In specialty metals—yes, that’s high-quality steel.
We work with precision, with purpose, with pride...
But even steel sellers need pancakes on the side.

Now our leader, the big cheese, full of quirks and great cheer
Had a delightful and unusual idea this year.
He woke up one morning (as legends begin),
Craving 49ers—those pancakes so yummy and thin.

“They’re golden and bubbly! They’re buttery dreams!
They shimmer like our beloved SBQ and stainless steel beams.
”He pondered this craving, his heart full of glee,
And thought, “Why not share this with the whole company?”

So that guy made it happen, no fanfare, no fuss,
Just pancakes and joy for each one of us.
To Walker Bros. or the Pancake House we’d go,
With hungry kiddies and spouses and friends in tow.

For Magellan's not just about steel and the grind,
It's about the people, the hearts intertwined.
We're more than just coworkers, we're family, it's true,
And gestures like this make that sentiment new.

So here's to the pancakes, the syrup, the butter,
To moments that make our hearts all aflutter.
And here's to Magellan’s Prez, our leader, our friend,
Whose offbeat ideas bring joy without end. ❤️❤️❤️

P.L.A.Y.S. in Action

1,400 kids. 60 schools. One unforgettable day of soccer and smiles

On Saturday, April 26, the fields of a sprawling indoor soccer facility in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood buzzed with energy as more than 1,400 grade school students from 60 Chicago Public Schools came together for a day of competition, learning, and laughter. The occasion? A high-spirited tournament organized by the Chicago Fire FC’s P.L.A.Y.S. Program—Participate, Learn, Achieve, Youth, Soccer.

P.L.A.Y.S., a flagship initiative of the Chicago Fire Foundation, uses soccer as a powerful tool to improve academic performance and build critical social-emotional skills in 3rd through 5th grade students. Saturday’s event was a vivid example of that mission in action—young athletes playing hard, encouraging one another, and practicing teamwork and respect with every match.

Magellan is proud to support Chicago Fire FC and the work of its Foundation, which brings programs like P.L.A.Y.S. to life. As a sleeve patch sponsor of the Fire and a committed partner in their community outreach, we are honored to play a part—however small—in moments like these, when the power of sport helps shape the future of our city’s youth.

Thank you to Jessica Yavitz, Christian Smith, and the incredible team at the Chicago Fire Foundation for creating such a joyful, inspiring experience. These kids were having the time of their lives—and it showed in every smile.