Rev. Nicole Duncan-Smith is a dedicated bi-vocational minister whose theology is firmly rooted in the Baptist tradition and Hip-Hop culture. Embracing inclusivity akin to Jesus’ universal love, she employs contemporary pop culture and technology to illuminate the path to spiritual enlightenment. Founder of The Sunday School Dropout, Rev. Nikki, as she is affectionately called, champions a ministry dedicated to hearing personal faith testimonies, nurturing biblical literacy, and providing sanctuary for those who seek God outside traditional church settings.

Originally from West Philadelphia, she seamlessly integrates the dynamic influences of Hip-Hop into her spiritual practice, reflecting her upbringing immersed in its rich cultural tapestry. Her career includes pivotal roles at various record labels, distribution companies, and entertainment firms, working alongside industry luminaries like Sheri Riley, Russell Simmons, Steve Stoute, and L. Londell McMillian.

Over the last five years, she has served as the Director of Corporate Communications for the Ultimate Rap League and has sat on the Advisory Board of The Hip Hop Museum on its Artist Relations Committee.

An accomplished author and lecturer, Rev. Nikki holds degrees from Spelman College and New York Theological Seminary. Her scholarly pursuits have taken her to lecture halls at Princeton Seminary, Drexel University, Virginia Tech, New York Theological Seminary, Spelman College, and globally in Nigeria and Japan, where she explores the intersection of religion, rap music, and cultural studies.

She has prepared a special talk for us at Mount Holyoke centering themes of belonging, faith, and culture in the works of Kendrick Lamar. Please join us in the Great Room at 7:30 pm on Thursday, Feb 12 to listen, learn, and engage with Rev. Nikki and her important work.