Boston Arts Academy students received a rare lesson Wednesday afternoon — led by renowned rapper Lupe Fiasco. Lupe Fiasco, the stage name for Chicago-native Wasalu Jaco, led nine students through a detailed Masterclass on the power of didactic, instructional lyrics. 

In the Boston Herald’s article about Fiasco’s lesson on the context, construction, and content of lyrics, he reportedly told the class:

“When I went from being an artist straight out of high school, I was still learning how to construct and compose, still trying to figure out what I wanted to say. And then I started to learn that what I wanted to say was dictated by what I needed it to do and not the other way around.”

Fiasco will be teaching a semester-long course at MIT, beginning this week, as one of the MLK Visiting Professors and Scholars Program for the 2022-23 academic year. About Fiasco and the MLK program at MIT, John Dozier, MIT’s Institute Community and Equity Officer, said, “MIT is so fortunate to have this group of remarkable individuals join us. They bring a range and depth of knowledge to share with our students and faculty, and we look forward to working with them to build a stronger sense of community across the Institute.” 

John Dozier also serves as Co-Chair of the BAAF 2023 Champion’s Committee, alongside his wife Victoria, who also participates on the BAAF Advisory Council. The Champion’s Committee, led by the Doziers, aims to raise $150,000 for the Champion Reception taking place on Thursday, March 16. Following this event, all guests are invited to attend the All-Star Student Production of Shrek The Musical in BAA’s new theatre.

Get to know our Co-Chairs: John Dozier joined MIT in 2020 as its new Institute Community and Equity Officer (ICEO). He previously served as Chief Diversity Officer and Senior Provost for Inclusion at the University of South Carolina. Victoria Dozier has over 30 years of experience in both business management and engineering. We look forward to their leadership of the Champion Reception event!

Thank you to John and Victoria for caring about BAA's artists, scholars, and global citizens and for supporting their futures. We are so excited to continue our collaboration with you!

We invite you to join us on the Champion’s Committee to help us reach our goal and ensure a successful event. 

Email cdurkin@baafdn.​org to get involved.