Koya Partners | Diversified Search Group is delighted to announce the appointment of Artis Stevens as President and CEO of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.
Stevens was selected to lead Big Brothers Big Sisters of America after a national search led by Koya in partnership with a Search Committee appointed by the Board of Directors.
As the first Black CEO to lead the organization in its 116-year history, Stevens brings 25 years of leadership in the positive youth development sector.
Stevens notes:
“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. 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. I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this amazing organization and continue the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.”
Throughout his diverse background in bridging innovative marketing, fundraising, and program strategies, Stevens has generated awareness and revenue to drive greater impact for youth, families, and communities in need. His passion for building purpose-driven brands and cultivating boards and talent has inspired partnerships with more than 60 of the most well-known brands in the country.
During Stevens’ tenure at two iconic, national youth organizations, National 4-H Council and Boys & Girls Clubs of America, his ability to reimagine organizations marketing and fundraising streams, contributed to more than $100 million raised, $150 million in media and transformed local affiliate engagement across both organizations.
Stevens has served as Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at National 4-H Council since 2014, leading brand purpose across the organization’s positioning, strategic plan, marketing campaigns, digital transformation, programs, and local affiliate efforts. He has also been responsible for driving revenue across the organization’s e-commerce and merchandising business, as well as digital fundraising – doubling fundraising pipelines and increasing 4-H’s digital footprint four times, to more than one million alumni and supporters.
Before joining 4-H, Stevens served as national Vice President, Marketing, Strategy and Operations at Boys & Girls Clubs of America where he spearheaded the most impactful brand awareness campaign launch to date – including a new tagline – Great Futures Start Here.
A proven visionary leader and strategist, Stevens’ experience in marketing strategy, partnership and celebrity engagement, and board management provide a diverse mix of expertise positioning him as a sought-after speaker on revitalizing nonprofit brands, infusing brand culture, and converting marketing to engagement.
Named American Marketing Association Foundation’s 2018 National Nonprofit Marketer of the Year, the highest honor bestowed by the AMA/AMAF on nonprofit marketing professionals, Stevens was recognized for his leadership in revitalizing 4-H’s 100-year-old brand image.
Stevens and his wife Erica are the proud parents of two daughters and actively serve in their community. He is a Board Director of Friends School of Atlanta, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and an engaged alumnus of the University of Georgia.
Stevens holds a Masters of Public Administration in Marketing from Valdosta State University. He earned his Bachelors of Arts in Marketing and Communications from the University of Georgia.