About the Fresh Connect

The Fresh Connect is an event and concept rooted in celebrating & building community through Hip-Hop. Our mission is to connect fresh emerging Hip-Hop talent, seasoned professionals, participants, and supporters of Hip-Hop culture at Columbia College Chicago, throughout the City of Chicago, and beyond.

Columbia College Chicago's Events Management: Practicum students are responsible for the event, which is held annually. 2024's celebration will be the eighth Fresh Connect event, entitled 'Volume 8'.

The Fresh Connect honors Chicago Hip-Hop pioneer Parker Lee Williams, also known as DJ P-Lee Fresh, with a scholarship established at Columbia College Chicago in his memory.