The Hip Hop IS Higher Ed Symposium

The Hip Hop IS Higher Ed Symposium, co-hosted with the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce, is a free, nationally recognized community event which uses hip hop as a lens to explore civic power, economic development, mental health, workforce development, and community voice — under this year's theme: "Who's World Is This? Hip Hop & The People's Right to Define, Demand & Reclaim Their World."

Featuring a historic keynote — In Conversation with MC Sha-Rock, the first female MC in hip hop history, founding member of the Funky Four Plus One, and 2026 North Carolina Music Hall of Fame inductee — hosted and interviewed by TeAsia "RoyalTea" Royster of K97.5. Also on the program: a Civic Engagement Town Hall and Panel with regional government and community leaders, four concurrent breakout sessions on hip hop, education, mental health, economic mobility, and civic engagement, The Plug: A Pop-Up Career Expo & Resource Fair presented by American Underground, live performances by Eternal The MC, MC Rashad Eas, and DJ Complex of Durham, a special artist recognition ceremony honoring Dasan Ahanu and Miriam Tolbert (Mir.I.Am), and a full Vendor Marketplace.

Since 2019, HHIHE has been featured in Diversity Inc. Magazine, covered by PBS NC, and IndyWeek, and recognized by the City of Raleigh. Free with required registration. To register VISIT aspire2higher.com and click on Hip Hop IS Higher Ed Symposium