Nat was initiated into the Pi Kappa Alpha brotherhood in 1970, obtaining his BBA in 1973. During that time he was involved with committee groups within the fraternity and served as an advisor to the University’s Bobcat Club. Paying for much of his tuition, one of the more interesting work activities was as a swimmer at Aquarena Springs—among other things there feeding Ralph the Swimming Pig.
After earning a BBA in 1973 at Texas State University San Marcos, Nat started as a professional sales representative at Allergan working in Eye and Skin Care. He was recruited as a Sales Manager for Akorn Ophthalmics, later becoming their President paving the way for a NASDAQ public offering. He resigned to form OCuSOFT Inc along with his business and life partner, Cynthia Barratt. He is now OCuSOFT’s Co-CEO/Chairman.
As an alumnus, Brother Adkins is a Donor and Sponsor of the Department of Theater and Dance. He is very involved in many different organizations within the community including Child Advocates of Fort Bend, Boys and Girls club of Richmond/Rosenberg and the Fort Bend Children’s Museum. Fort Bend County Museum, Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo, and The City of Rosenberg are more of what Adkins is involved in. The list of involvement continues to Hope for Three, Reining strength and Texana. It is apparent that Nat really cares about making a positive difference and enjoys giving back to his community.
Nat says that in the 70’s, Pi Kappa Alpha was perceived as a “gentleman’s” fraternity, as brothers were dressed in tuxedo’s when taking group photos, contrasted to other “party” fraternities. He felt a sense of belonging and acceptance as a gentleman that he has continued to strive for to this day, whether it’s showing the mannerisms of a gentleman, or dressing like one. He states, “I have certainly failed more than succeeded, but living up to the title of ‘gentleman’ is a worthy goal.”