When John Quiñones, award-winning television host and correspondent for ABC News, joined San Antonio's Boys & Girls Clubs of Calderon Clubhouse, he was a 12-year-old who constantly felt self-conscious about the way he spoke and growing up in a Spanish-speaking home. 

Thanks to the Club's mentors, Quiñones was encouraged to develop his potential and found the confidence to take part in talent contests, where he discovered his attraction to the energy emanating from the stages.

Also, due to a staff recommendation, Quiñones was able to access a highly selective program that ultimately propelled him to earn two degrees and build his legacy as a broadcast journalist.

Fast forward nearly 60 years later and Quiñones has been inducted into the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Alumni Hall of Fame. 

Jim Clark, president and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of America, stated in a press release:

It’s a true honor to induct John Quiñones into our Alumni Hall of Fame, alongside this exceptional group of top industry professionals.

A Grateful Quiñones

The television anchor, who in addition to his personal success has been noted for instilling confidence in young people thanks to the motivational talks he gives in high schools, was also recognized for his continued commitment to the organization.

“I cannot overstate the importance of my Boys & Girls Club in getting me to where I am today. Without the dedication from committed Club staff members who saw the potential I couldn’t see in myself, I would have never stepped foot on that stage for the talent show, let alone spent decades on a major broadcast network in front of millions of people,” noted Quiñones. 

The anchor has been bringing to light some of the world's most critical issues for nearly 40 years in his role at ABC News, including his work as creator and host of the network's hidden camera television series, 'What Would You Do?' which ran for 15 seasons and challenged ordinary people to confront everyday injustices.

Earlier this year, Quiñones was recognized by the Boys and Girls Club of San Antonio with the prestigious 'Youth Champion' award.

We are excited to introduce our 2023 #BGCA Alumni Hall of Fame Inductees: @AustinCreedWins, Coach Rick Carlisle, @JohnQABC, @Tony_Alva_Pure, @TrueKofi, @MarvinLMcIntyre, @CoachVeraJones, @ShaylaCowan, & @Michael_S_Regan.

Welcome to the family! #AHOF2023 pic.twitter.com/Hub6i5d6ey

— Boys & Girls Clubs of America (@BGCA_Clubs) April 27, 2023

Induction Ceremony

During the Boys & Girls Clubs of America's 117th annual national conference, recently held in Orlando, the renowned legacy youth development organization announced its 2023 Alumni Hall of Fame inductees.

“From award-winning media personalities to sports icons and coaches, and other top industry professionals, the 2023 Alumni Hall of Fame inductees reflect the outstanding outcomes Boys & Girls Club members can achieve when they have safe spaces, caring mentors and life-enhancing opportunities during their formative years,” highlighted the organization.

In addition to Quiñones, the Boys & Girls Clubs Alumni Hall of Fame welcomed:

• Michael S. Regan, US Administrator, Environmental Protection Agency
• Rick Carlisle, NBA Head Coach (Indiana Pacers)
• Vera Jones, former ESPN Analyst and Author
• Kofi Sarkodie-Mensah (aka Kofi Kingston), WWE Superstar
• Austin Watson (aka Xavier Woods), WWE Superstar
• Marvin L. McIntyre, Founder & CEO, Marvelous Enterprises
• Tony Alva, Professional Skateboarder
• Shayla Cowan, Emmy-nominated film and TV producer, Chief of Staff, Will Packer Productions (part of the first all-Black team to produce the Oscars)

The organization stresses that, in addition to being leaders and role models, the new members of the Alumni Hall of Fame share a passion for helping the next generation of children and adolescents achieve a great future.