Gregory Atkins - Betty J. Lewis Unsung Hero for October

At Southern Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech), we believe in shining a light on those who make a difference behind the scenes -- the unsung heroes of our community. These individuals dedicate their time, energy, and compassion to uplifting others without seeking recognition. The Betty J. Lewis Memorial Scholarship was created to honor such individuals, recognizing selfless service, quiet leadership, and unwavering dedication to education and community.

What is an Unsung Hero?

An unsung hero is someone who makes powerful contributions to the lives of others without expecting praise. They lead with humility, serve with heart, and make a lasting impact through dedication and compassion. At SAU Tech, this spirit is embodied in the legacy of Betty J. Lewis, whose life and work continue to inspire generations.

The Betty J. Lewis Memorial Scholarship is awarded to an individual who demonstrates:

• Selfless Service: A commitment to helping others and actively engaging with the community.

• Leadership Without the Spotlight: A person who inspires and leads by example, not for recognition, but because it's the right thing to do.

Each month, the SAU Tech Scholarship committee carefully reviews nominations and selects one individual who best represents these values.

October's Unsung Hero

Gregory Atkins is a visionary visual artist, educator, author, and creative entrepreneur whose multifaceted career spans classrooms, studios, and stages across the country. Born and raised in Camden, Arkansas, Gregory has spent over 25 years using the power of art to educate, inspire, and uplift communities. His legacy is rooted in a lifelong passion for visual storytelling and a deep commitment to education, cultural expression, and community engagement.

Early Life in Camden, Arkansas

Gregory Atkins was born to Essie Arnold and Elmer Atkins in Camden, Arkansas, where his early exposure to creativity and community shaped the artist he would become. He discovered a love for art at a young age -- drawing, painting, and designing as a means of expression. This early spark ignited a lifelong journey of learning, teaching, and creating, grounded in faith, family, and cultural pride.

Academic Journey and Arts Education

Gregory is a proud graduated of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education, laying the foundation for his career as an educator. He later pursued and completed a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from Miami University, deepening his understanding of the fine arts and expanding his capacity as a creative professional.

His academic journey reflects not only personal ambition but also a commitment to making arts education accessible, especially for underrepresented communities. Over the years, he has taught art at every academic level -- from elementary classrooms to university lecture halls -- always with a focus on empowerment through creativity.

A Lifelong Educator and Mentor

With more than 25 years in the field of education, Gregory Atkins is widely respected for his ability to inspire students of all ages. His teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that art has the power to transform, and he has mentored countless young creatives to find their voice through visual expression.

Creative Entrepreneur and Nationally Recognized Artist

In addition tohis educational impact, Gregory is the founder and owner of ATKINS ARTHOUSE, a successful graphic design and creative services company he has led for over 17 years. His work has reached national and international audiences, with clients including:

• Former United States Presidents

• Renowned Hollywood Actors

• High-profile corporations and organizations

From branding and illustration to custom artwork, Gregory's distinctive style and authenticity resonate across industries and audiences.

Author, Storyteller, and Multimedia Creator

A true Renaissance man, Gregory Atkins is also a published author of over ten books, spanning poetry, fiction, children's literature, and reflective essays. His written work explores themes of identity, creativity, resilience, and purpose.

His storytelling doesn't stop at the written word -- Gregory is also a film director, songwriter, photographer, and videographer, driven by a passion for capturing the human experience across multiple artistic mediums.

Family, Faith, and Community Roots

At the heart of Gregory's success is his commitment to family and community. A devoted husband and father of two, he continues to draw strength and inspiration from his roots in Camden, Arkansas. He credits his parents, Essie Arnold and Elmer Atkins, for nurturing his creativity and encouraging his dreams.

Whether mentoring young artists, designing for national campaigns, or telling stories through images and words, Gregor's work is grounded in the values of service, faith, and creative freedom.

A Legacy of Creativity and Impact

Gregory Atkins stands as a powerful example of how art and education can be tools for both personal growth and community transformation. His multifaceted career is a testament to the importance of following one's passion, embracing lifelong learning, and using creative gifts to uplift others.

SAU Tech Proudly Celebrates Local Heroes

At SAU Tech, we are proud to honor local visionaries like Gregory Atkins, whose lifelong contributions to arts, education, and community development make him an Unsung Hero. Through the Betty J. Lewis Memorial Scholarship, we continue to celebrate the quiet changemakers whose creativity and compassion shape the future of our region.