Russell Simmons to visit UCO this week | Business

A well-known music producer and manager will be speaking to students at UCO's College of Business later this week.Russell Simmons has been associated with hip-hop artists like Run DMC, Will Smith, the Beastie Boys, Jay Z, LL Cool J and Ludacris through his iconic record label, Def Jam Recordings. Some say Simmons is responsible for the popularity of hip-hop in today's society. After leaving Def Jam, Simmons also created a fashion empire in "Phat Farm" and created a film and television production company. The Simmons Lathan Media Group created "Def Comedy Jam," "Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry" and "The Nutty Professor." In addition to being a revolutionary in the business world, Simmons is also a well-known activist for social justice, education inclusion and financial empowerment. Simmons will be speaking at the Nigh University Center Constitution Hall on Wednesday, September 12, 2012 at 2 p.m. He will also be signing copies of his book immediately following the discussion. The event is free to all UCO students, faculty and staff. Tickets will be available for purchase at the door to the general public for $10 each. Doors will open at 1 p.m. and seats are open on a first come, first served basis.