Mrs. Veronica Atkins was born in the Georgia region of Russia. Since the age of fifteen she has resided in the United States. The arts, particularly music has played an important role in Mrs. Atkins’ life. She began singing in Europe at a young age and performed professionally as an opera singer. Today, Mrs. Atkins is an avid sponsor and supporter of the arts. She believes that the arts and culture are fundamental cornerstones of our society, and, that they improve the quality of human life. Mrs. Atkins is a managing director of the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Parrish Art Museum and President and Chairperson of the Dr. Robert C. and Veronica Atkins Foundation and the Atkins Young Artists Program, Inc. Mrs. Atkins is recognized as one of America’s most generous philanthropists, having been included by Business Week as one of America’s top 50 philanthropists and by Newsweek as part of the “All Star Team” in philanthropy.
Mrs. Atkins is the widow of internationally recognized cardiologist Dr. Robert C. Atkins.