Wyclef Jean Named ‘Artist of the Year’ by Harvard University

Prestigious institution Harvard University will honor Wyclef Jean with their yearly 'Artists of the Year' award later this week. The former Fugees member will be presented with the award by the Harvard Foundation during the university's Cultural Rhythms ceremony commemorating the impact his music has on the global population. "His contributions to music and distinguished history of creativity have been appreciated by people throughout the world," Harvard Foundation director S. Allen Counter stated. "He is admired worldwide for his humanitarian efforts on behalf of the people of Haiti."

Following the catastrophic 7.0 earthquake that hit his native Haiti in January, Jean has been at the forefront of philanthropic efforts. In the days following the quake he raised over $1 million for his non-profit organization Yele-Haiti via text donations. Additionally, Jean has traveled back and forth to the country, participated in fundraisers and made several public appearances to bring awareness to the poverty stricken area. The Grammy winner has always been vocal about his pride for Haiti, even starting a school there, which was destroyed in the natural disaster.

Jean will be in good company when it comes to previous recipients, which include Will Smith, Sharon Stone and Oscar winners Denzel Washington and Halle Berry. The Cultural Rhythms festival will take place Feb. 27.