The Art Institute of Atlanta (Ai Atlanta) is proud to announce GRAMMY Award-winning songwriter/producer and CEO of So So Def Recordings, Jermaine Dupri as the speaker at Ai Atlanta’s commencement ceremony on June 17th. As part of the commencement celebration, Ai Atlanta will recognize Dupri’s contributions to the community by awarding the rap icon with an Honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree.
One of the most successful producers in the music industry, Dupri is best known for his talent and important contributions to the music industry. He mentored the careers of notable artists such as Usher, TLC, Mariah Carey, Xscape, Da Brat, Bow Wow, Jagged Edge, Anthony Hamilton, and more.
Dupri is a supporter of Ai Atlanta because of the creative talent of the students and the unique programs offered by the private school.
“The students set to graduate from Ai Atlanta are unlike other graduates – they are truly super creatives – so it’s really exciting for me to speak to them and impart some advice on their special day,” said Dupri. “I hope they see me as proof that hard work and unrelenting dedication busts down doors and makes anything you want to achieve possible.”
Jermaine Dupri shot to stardom in 1991 – at only 19 years of age – when he discovered the rap group Kriss Kross at an Atlanta Mall. Dupri’s impressive work history includes efforts with Columbia Records, Arista, Island, and his stints as head of Virgin Records urban music operations, and as the President of Island Def Jam Music Group. Today, Dupri has sold over 400 million records and boasts a legacy as one of the most successful producers in the industry.