News
Centene and Health Net Recognize Outstanding Achievement of Big Brothers Big Sisters' CEO
Date: 07/13/23
On June 27th, Anaheim, California played host to the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) National Conference. Executives from Health Net and Centene, each one a BBBSA board member, were on hand to present an award.
Centene's Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Suzy DePrizio and Health Net's CEO and President of Health Net of California, Brian Ternan were there to present BBBSA CEO, Artis Stephens with the Centene Leadership Award for his outstanding work and community service.
"It's an honor to be here today to present the Centene Leadership Award to Artis Stevens recognizing his leadership, vision and commitment," said Brian to a packed ballroom at the Anaheim Marriott.
Under Artis' leadership, the Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion (JEDI) Advisory Council of Big Brothers Big Sisters was formed in 2021. This Council brings together experts and leaders in diverse communities. It also has many organizational ties that include:
- Healthcare
- Government
- Education and more
"In just over two years as the CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters, Artis has made an incredible impact," Suzy added. "His signature accomplishments share a theme: Partnership. Bringing people and organizations with unique skills together in service of a common mission, so that we can all do more for our communities."
BBBSA has been a leading partner with both Health Net and Centene to address the needs of youth and where they live.
For example, following the tragic event in Uvalde, Centene and our Texas subsidiary – Superior Health Plan – partnered with Artis and BBBSA to support the community in the days and months that followed. This included working with Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Antonio to create a new BBBSA branch in Uvalde.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Uvalde will have space in the community center (currently being built) which the Centene Foundation and Superior granted with more than $7 million in funding.
Artis and his team also partnered with Futures Without Violence and the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. Together they launched a breakthrough national network of mental health responders. This group is steadfast in helping teens and young men, mainly those of color, learn the signs of early mental health challenges. And, helping connect them to resources for support.
This also displays strides he has made fundraising, which includes the largest donation from an individual the BBBSA has ever received last year when MacKenzie Scott donated $122.6 million.
"Artis has a genius for this," Suzy said. "For bringing together the right people to engage on an issue with greater clarity, efficiency and empathy."
Congrats Artis!
From left to right: Health Net CEO and President of Health Net of California Brian Ternan, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) CEO Artis Stephens and Centene Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Suzy DePrizio.