Franklin alumnus Artis Stevens shares wisdom on the importance of mentorship

In 1985, the Holmes-Hunter Lecture Series was established in conjunction with the University of Georgia to honor Dr. Hamilton Holmes and Charlayne Hunter-Gault, the first Black students to enroll at UGA. The lecture is given by a distinguished scholar or public figure who exemplifies excellence. This year’s keynote speaker was Artis Stevens, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and a Franklin College alumnus. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Georgia in 1997 and a Master of Science in Public Administration from Valdosta State University in 2000.

Stevens exemplifies excellence, using the foundation he built as an undergraduate at UGA to lead one of the nation’s most impactful youth mentorship organizations. His time in the Franklin College not only honed his communication skills but also instilled in him the critical thinking, leadership and innovative mindset that have guided his career. From his early days as a student to his role as President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, Stevens has demonstrated the power of mentorship and community engagement. His success underscores the transformative impact of a Franklin College degree, inspiring future generations of students to pursue their passions and make meaningful contributions to society.

UGA President Jere Morehead opened the speech by reflecting on Dr. Hamilton Holmes and Charlayne Hunter-Gault’s time at the university and the lasting impact they have had. 

“We knew that Artis was destined for great things,” said Morehead. “As a UGA student, he was president of the Black Affairs Council and is a co-founder of the Rite of Sankofa ceremony.”

Morehead then introduced Olana Jebel, a fourth-year computer science major in the Franklin College, who serves as a Resident Assistant and Chapter President of the Zeta Pi chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha. 

“It is my great honor to introduce our distinguished guest and keynote speaker for today, Artis Stevens,” said Jebel. “Stevens is the first Black president and CEO in the organization’s 120-year history. Thanks to his leadership, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America has more than doubled its revenue and expanded its reach to serve more underrepresented communities.”

As the crowd applauded, Stevens opened his speech by expressing gratitude. “I’m a true believer of where you go, your village goes with it,” said Stevens. “My village rolls deep to two incredible trailblazers,” — referring to Holmes and Hunter.

Reflecting on his village, Stevens shared shoutouts and personal reflections. He first spoke about his mother, Rose Stevens, who was attending her first event at UGA since his graduation. He then acknowledged his niece, the Big Brothers Big Sisters leadership committee, the Zeta Pi chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and his family. He expressed appreciation for Dr. Holmes and Ms. Hunter for providing the opportunity to build and create a village.

Reflecting on this history, Stevens acknowledged the sacrifices of Hamilton Holmes and Charlayne Hunter-Gault, whose courage made it possible for future generations to thrive at UGA. He recalled sitting in this very chapel thirty years ago, listening intently, and now standing on the dais as a testament to the power of perseverance. Stevens also honored the legacy of Mary Frances Early and the challenges she endured. “There are opportunities but they also come with challenges,” said Stevens, recognizing the struggles that pioneers faced while opening doors for others.

Stevens shared that he grew up rich—not in wealth, but in relationships—deeply anchored in a community that shared responsibilities and lifted one another. “We have a village,” said Stevens. He encouraged the audience to call on their village when needed and to always remember their origin stories. As the first in his family to graduate from college, Stevens knows firsthand the power of belief. “Who are you in someone’s origin story?” he challenged the audience, urging them to be active participants in the growth of others.

Stevens reflected on his first job interview, where he was asked, “What does home mean to you?” That moment sparked his desire to empower young people to change the world. He spoke of 2020, a year marked by the pandemic and a reckoning with social justice issues, including the tragic loss of Ahmaud Arbery. Coincidentally, Arbery was murdered on a street in Steven’s hometown neighborhood, a street he traveled many times.  At that moment, he questioned whether he was doing enough—whether he should return home and give back in a deeper way.

That call to service was answered when Big Brothers Big Sisters reached out to him. Seeing himself in young students, he realized the importance of mentorship and his belief in the power of investing in future generations.

As President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, Artis Stevens leads the organization in fostering impactful one-on-one mentoring relationships that empower young people. He sets the strategic vision, ensuring growth and long-term success while advocating for policies that support youth development. Stevens also focuses on securing funding and building partnerships with corporations, donors, and government agencies to sustain and expand mentorship programs. Under his leadership, BBBSA continuously innovates by integrating new technologies and research-based approaches to enhance its programs. Additionally, he provides guidance and resources to local agencies within the network, ensuring effective mentorship nationwide. With a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, Stevens works to create opportunities for young people from all backgrounds.

Stevens closed his speech with his family’s motto: “Be smart. Be strong. Be kind. Be you.” He explained that being smart means making wise choices and understanding that every action has consequences, as well as creating opportunities for oneself. Being strong refers to having the resilience to navigate the world’s challenges. Being kind emphasizes showing empathy and love, even when others may not reciprocate. Stevens said, “One of the greatest loves that you have to have is self-love because most hate emanates from people who dislike things about themselves. You have to be able to love yourself before you can love among others.” Lastly, he encouraged everyone to be their authentic selves. “Be the original recipe that God has designed you to bring forward into this world,” said Stevens.

“With this, we can change the world,” he said.

He urged the audience to reflect on the opportunities before them, to embrace the power of mentorship, and to pay forward the support they have received. With heartfelt thanks, he invited them to continue building their own villages and to explore the spaces that have shaped so many before them.

Image: CEO and President of Big Brothers Big Sisters Artis Stevens delivers annual Holmes-Hunter Lecture. Photo by Abigail Jean Neises