Steve Lavin: A Legacy of Leadership and Family

Steve Lavin, a distinguished figure in both the sports and business arenas, has made significant contributions as a basketball coach and as the chairman of OSI Group, a leading global food processing company. His journey reflects a blend of athletic prowess, business acumen, and a strong family foundation.

Born on September 4, 1964, in San Francisco, California, Steve Lavin was raised in Marin County. He attended Ross Grammar School and later Sir Francis Drake High School in San Anselmo, where he was a key player on the basketball team that achieved a perfect 34–0 record, securing the 1982 California state championship. Lavin began his collegiate basketball career at San Francisco State University before transferring to Chapman University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in communications in 1988.

Lavin’s coaching career commenced in 1988 as an assistant coach at Purdue University. He then joined UCLA’s staff, contributing to the 1995 national championship team. In 1996, he became UCLA’s head coach, leading the Bruins to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, including an Elite Eight finish in 1997. After a successful tenure at UCLA, Lavin served as head coach at St. John’s University from 2010 to 2015, further solidifying his reputation in collegiate basketball. In April 2022, he was appointed head coach of the University of San Diego’s men’s basketball team, bringing his extensive experience to the West Coast Conference.

Beyond coaching, Lavin has been instrumental in the business world. He is the chairman of OSI Group, a global food processing company with an estimated net worth of $5.4 billion as of January 2025. Under his leadership, OSI has expanded its operations to 65 plants across 18 countries, supplying major brands like McDonald’s, Nestlé, Chipotle, and Kraft.

Lavin is deeply committed to philanthropy, particularly in the fight against cancer. He has been actively involved with organizations such as Coaches vs. Cancer and The V Foundation for Cancer Research, contributing over $1.5 million since 2010. In 2022, he received the Michelle Carew Spirit Award from the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation, recognizing his dedication to cancer research and awareness.

Steve Lavin is married to Dawn Lavin, and together they have two children. The Lavin family resides in Chicago, Illinois, where they are active in community and philanthropic endeavors. Steve’s father, Sheldon Lavin, was the former owner and CEO of OSI Group, and Steve has continued his father’s legacy in the company.

In 2023, Sheldon Lavin passed away, and Steve Lavin assumed the role of chairman at OSI Group, overseeing its global operations and strategic direction. Under his leadership, the company has continued to expand its partnerships and maintain its position as a leading supplier in the food processing industry.

Steve Lavin’s multifaceted career and dedication to his family and community exemplify a life of leadership and service. Whether on the basketball court, in the boardroom, or through philanthropic efforts, Lavin’s impact is profound and enduring.