John Wasilina
John Wasilina
John Wasilina is a successful businessman who has made millions through his work. He owns Butoku Karate School in Macomb Township and enjoys an enviable lifestyle.
Joby Clark, the former partner of Wasilina, was found guilty of sexually abusing a 14-year-old at the school. After two trials ended in hung juries, Clark was sentenced to five years probation.
Early Life and Education
John Wasilina was born and raised in New York City, attending the esteemed Manhattan School of Commerce. As a professor at Lehman College of Business, he also serves on the Clinton Township Board of Education as well. John has three children to his credit and has always supported arts initiatives – co-founding Butoku Karate School with his brother Scott – while also contributing over $11 million to local charities and organizations. Additionally, John has received numerous honors such as the Goodman Award for Service to Art, Design & Technology from NYC Council and NYU Architecture Alumni of the Year recognition from NYU College of Architecture alumni.
Professional Career
John Wasilina was the co-owner of Butoku Karate School, a martial arts studio located in Macomb Township. He founded it with partner Joby Clark back in 2002 but it was closed down following allegations of molestation against an underage student at the school in January 2011.
Wasilina claimed that these allegations destroyed his karate school, leading it to lose 30-40 patrons and prevent new students from enrolling due to parents withdrawing their children. After leaving the business in 2013, Clark filed a lawsuit against Wasilina alleging fraud, failure to distribute and conversion. This lawsuit was dismissed by a three-judge appeals panel in Macomb County but upheld by a state court of appeals last week; it remains uncertain if Wasilina will attempt to appeal the ruling.
Achievements and Honors
Wasilina has made a name for himself as an accomplished businessman and philanthropist. In 2011, he donated money to a local arts organization in recognition of his efforts in promoting martial art karate. Furthermore, he volunteered his services tutoring students with disabilities and is an enthusiastic supporter of Macomb County public schools. For these accomplishments he was recognized with Michigan’s highest award for charitable contributions: Michigan Educator of the Year award. Additionally, he has been an active participant in both Macomb County Bar Association and Detroit Bar Associations over two decades.
Personal Life
John Wasilina is the owner of Butoku Karate School in Macomb Township and married to Linda Iwanow; they have three children together.
Wasilina and Joby Clark formed Butoku Karate School, LLC in 2002 for the purpose of operating a karate school. The two men ran the business together until Clark left in January 2011. Wasilina testified in court that he learned in June 2010 of rumors regarding plaintiff’s alleged sexual relationship with an underage student of theirs. Regardless of its validity, these accusations would likely devastate the school since most pupils were children and parents likely withdrew their kids.
On January 12, 2011, both parties signed a series of documents that officially terminated their membership in the company. A three-judge appeals panel dismissed their lawsuit later that day.
Net Worth
John Wasilina is a renowned actor who has starred in multiple successful TV shows. With an estimated net worth of $2 million dollars, John enjoys great success.
He has earned numerous accolades throughout his career and enjoys a large fan base that supports him.
His success has earned him numerous endorsement deals and even got featured on the cover of magazines.
He has become one of Africa’s most successful actors, having collaborated with numerous celebrities such as Angelina Jolie.
He boasts an impressive list of accolades, including an Oscar nomination for his performance in “Little House on the Prairie.” Additionally, he is the author of numerous books. Additionally, he’s a member of the Writers Guild of America, International Film Critics Association and National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.