Black men lead!
Artis Stevens, senior vice president and chief marketing officer of National 4-H Council, has made history as the first Black person to lead Big Brothers Big Sisters of America as CEO in the nonprofit’s 116-year history. On Nov. 23rd, they announced he would succeed Pam Iorio as president, she is retiring after seven years leading the organization.
“Pam was instrumental in establishing a 5-year strategic plan focused on innovative technology solutions, new funding opportunities and brand transformation,” Ken Burdick, Board Chair, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, said in a press release about Stevens’ appointment. “As we look to the future, we know Artis has the expertise – and passion – to lead this organization and defend the potential of youth across the country.”
Since 2014, Stevens has led the nonprofit’s brand positioning, alumni and marketing campaigns, digital transformation and local engagement efforts. The organization said he’s doubled fundraising pipelines and significantly increased 4-H’s digital footprint to more than one million alumni and supporters.
“One of the most important parts of my life has been the opportunity to lead purpose-driven work and empowering young people to be the change they want to see in the world,” Stevens said in a press release. “I’ve grown up in youth development and know first-hand the life-changing impact mentorship can have on one’s life, and I have dedicated my career to bringing these types of experiences to all young people,” added Stevens.
The century-old nonprofit has been committed to creating “one-to-one mentorship relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.”
“I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this amazing organization and continue the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America,” Stevens said.
Stevens will start his new role in January. He has more than two decades of leadership experience, previously working as the national vice president, marketing strategy & operations at the Boys & Girls Club of America. While at BGCA, he spearheaded one of the “most impactful brand awareness and fundraising campaign launch to date – Great Futures Start Here.” In 2018, he was named National Nonprofit Marketer of the Year, which is the highest honor given by the AMA/AMAF to nonprofit marketing professionals.
I’m so proud and excited to share that I have been announced as the next President & CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and I’m honored & humbled to become the 1st Black CEO in the @BBBSA’s 116-year history. https://t.co/jhCvlFSwAb
(1/3)— Artis Stevens (@artisnstevens) November 23, 2020
He is married and the father of two daughters serving on the board of directors of Friends School of Atlanta. He graduated from The University of Georgia, where he pledged Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity Inc. and received his Master of Public Administration from Valdosta State University.
Thank you for continuing to uplift our community. Congratulations, Artis!