Artis Stevens, a graduate of UGA’s Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, received an honorary doctorate from American University during the university’s commencement ceremonies, where he also delivered the commencement address.

Stevens is president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and a national leader in youth mentorship and nonprofit leadership. He is the first Black leader in the organization’s 120-year history. Since becoming president and CEO, he has led significant growth across the organization, including expanding mentorship opportunities in underserved communities and more than doubling annual revenue. He also helped secure the largest single donation in the organization’s history, a $122.6 million gift from MacKenzie Scott.

“Artis is an extraordinary leader who has taken our national organization to another level through his visionary leadership, innovative marketing, elevated brand recognition, and transformational fundraising success,” said Kwame Johnson, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta. “His ability to inspire leaders across our network, build meaningful partnerships, and drive mission-focused growth has strengthened our organization’s reach and long-term impact across the communities we serve.”

Under Stevens’ leadership, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America has been recognized among the nation’s most trusted nonprofits and received honors from organizations including Forbes, Fast Company, Morning Consult, and Engage for Good. Stevens was named to the ForbesBLK Top 50 List in 2024 and Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential Leaders in Philanthropy in 2025. 

Stevens graduated from UGA in 1997 with a bachelor’s degree in communications from the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences. While at UGA, he became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. He later earned a master’s degree in public administration from Valdosta State University. He lives in Atlanta with his wife, Dr. Erica Stevens, and their two daughters.