Juli Boeheim has brought a background of "Southern hospitality" to Central New York and won over the community with her involvement in a number of charitable organizations. Born in Miami, Fla., and raised in Kentucky, Juli was introduced to SU basketball coach Jim Boeheim in 1994 at a Kentucky Derby party. The two were married in 1997.
While Jim had already been heavily immersed in fundraising for Coaches vs. Cancer, a partnership between the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) and the American Cancer Society, his partnership with Juli has increased an already formidable attack on cancer. Juli and Jim devised an annual event, the "Basket Ball," a black-tie affair that has developed into one of Central New York's top social events. The Ball will celebrate its 10th year in 2009 with a history of close to $4 million in donations. The Boeheims' success has encouraged others to adopt the formula. Basket Balls are now held by Philadelphia and Albany area coaches, and the staffs at Buffalo, Connecticut, and Gonzaga.
While the Basket Ball has been a tremendous undertaking, it is not the only charity Juli has lent her enthusiasm to. She has served on the boards of the ARC of Onondaga, University Hospital, Upstate Medical University Foundation and the Syracuse Community Health Center. She's also been active with the Rescue Mission and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
In 2004, Juli was presented the Humanitarian Medallion at the annual House of Providence Dinner. It is an award given by Catholic Charities in recognition of bettering the lives of others and dedication to the Syracuse Community. In 2005 she earned Citizen of the Year honors from Temple Adath Yeshurun. The award is given to individuals who have devoted their time, talent and resources to better the community and world in which they live.
Juli received her undergraduate degree in merchandising, apparel and textiles with an emphasis in marketing from the University of Kentucky. After moving to Syracuse, she earned a master's degree from SU in child and family studies with a focus on infant and young children with disabilities.
The Boeheim Family includes Jimmy, twins Jamie and Jack. Jim's older daughter, Elizabeth, is a graduate of Colby College.
