Jermaine Durpi has won Grammy Awards, earned platinum plaques and performed on the world’s biggest stages. Now, he will be honored as doctor of fine arts in the city of Atlanta, Georgia. Earlier this month, the Art Institute of Atlanta announced that Jermaine Dupri will deliver an address to this year’s class of graduates. In return, he will receive an honorary doctor of fine arts degree.
“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,” he stated.
“I hope they see me as proof that hard work and unrelenting dedication busts down doors and makes anything you want to achieve possible.”
Dupri has been a major influence in the city’s art, entertainment and culture for more than two decades. He’s had a hand in the success of stars like Bow Wow, Usher and Mariah Carey. His label, So So Def Records, also molded stars like Xscape and Jagged Edge.
“It gives us great pleasure to nominate Jermaine Dupri for an honorary degree from The Art Institute of Atlanta as his impressive achievements serve as an example of our aspirations for our students,” Art Institute of Atlanta Campus President Elden Monday said.
“Jermaine is a visionary who has contributed significantly to the Atlanta community through his work in the global entertainment market. As long-time fans of Jermaine and his music, his accomplishments and contributions to the music industry directly align with the mission of our institution as we strive to nourish and develop creative warriors to become productive contributors to society.”
The commencement ceremony is set to take place next month as the Art Institute of Atlanta honors its new class of graduates on June 17, 2022.
