Partnership gives Detroit youth performers professional recording experience while helping launch Baker College’s new brand platform
Royal Oak, MI — Baker College is turning up the volume on its new “B the Future” brand campaign through a powerful collaboration with the Detroit Youth Choir (DYC), the nationally recognized organization known for inspiring young voices and transforming lives through music, and Metro Detroit musician/YouTube sensation JonPaul Wallace.
As part of the campaign, members of the Detroit Youth Choir recorded an original musical feature used throughout Baker College television commercials, helping bring the college’s future-focused message to life through the voices of Detroit youth. The collaboration was recorded at Yessian Music, one of Michigan’s premier production studios, giving participating students an opportunity rarely experienced at their age.
“For many of these students, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Anthony White, Artistic Director of the Detroit Youth Choir. “A lot of them have never worked on a project like this before. It was important for me to make sure our students had the opportunity to be part of something special. It’s all about opportunities.”
White explained that the partnership came together through Yessian Music, an award-winning production company with which the choir has previously collaborated. “When Yessian calls, it’s usually an automatic yes,” White said. “Projects like this expose students to professional-level experiences that can inspire future careers and confidence.”
For Baker College, the partnership reflects the heart of the “B the Future” campaign which is empowering collegiate students to discover possibility, purpose, and potential. “This collaboration represents more than a commercial,” said Kelley Suggs, Baker College Public Relations Manager. “It’s about creating opportunities for young people, celebrating creativity, and showcasing what can happen when education, community, and the arts come together.”
The campaign reflects Baker’s commitment to helping students turn passion into purpose through career-focused education, flexible learning options, and strong industry and community partnerships. “From healthcare and skilled trades to business, and technology, Baker College continues to create accessible pathways for students to build meaningful futures without sacrificing affordability or personal support,” Suggs said. “Through collaborations like this, Baker is investing not only in education, but in the next generation of leaders, creators, and changemakers.”
The experience also left a lasting impact on the students involved. “I think it’s a really cool experience, and I’m glad that I get to be a part of it,” said Cameron Chihuah-Lewis, an eighth-grade member of the choir who described DYC as an important outlet for self-expression and personal growth.
Another student performer, Jerryn Martin, an 11th grader at Avondale High School, said the opportunity boosted both confidence and excitement for the future. “I was surprised I got picked,” Martin said. “But now I’m excited. DYC has helped me expand my voice and express myself in ways I couldn’t before. I want people to be proud of me.”
The partnership highlights a shared commitment between Baker College and the Detroit Youth Choir to invest in student growth, confidence, creativity, and future success. The “B the Future” campaign will begin appearing across television, digital, and social media platforms throughout Michigan this year.
The Detroit Youth Choir (DYC), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1996, is dedicated to providing youth aged 8–18 in the Metropolitan Detroit area with a world class performing arts experience. This strategic plan outlines DYC’s vision for 2025, focusing on expanding program offerings, strengthening community partnerships, enhancing financial sustainability, and amplifying youth voices through innovative performances and educational initiatives
Baker College is an independent, private, non-profit institution that grants associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees on six campuses across Michigan and online. Founded in 1911, the institution’s mission is to provide an inclusive, innovative, and transformative educational experience, driven by a student-first philosophy. Learn more at baker.edu and follow on X, Meta, and Instagram.
