Longtime Educator And Former Chicago State University Professor Was Remembered As A “Builder Of People” Whose Influence Reached Generations Of Students, Artists And Community Leaders
Ye returned to his hometown of Chicago Tuesday for a tribute centered not on his own career, but on the legacy of his late mother, Dr. Donda West.
West was honored with an honorary street designation at 78th Street and South Shore Drive, near the South Side neighborhood where she raised Ye and where the family’s former home still stands.
Chicago 7th Ward Alderman Greg Mitchell described West as a “builder of people,” a “cultivator of talents” and a “champion for Black creativity and intellectual excellence.”
“Her impact stretches far beyond the block, far beyond Chicago, and far beyond her lifetime,” Mitchell said during the ceremony.
Ye Helps Unveil Dr. Donda West Way
During the unveiling, Ye asked to personally reveal the new Dr. Donda West Way sign.
He was joined by several longtime friends and Chicago artists, including Che “Rhymefest” Smith, Leonard “GLC” Harris, Really Doe and Don “Don C” Crawley.
The ceremony marked another hometown appearance for Ye after two recent performances at Chicago’s Soldier Field.
West died in 2007 at age 58 following complications associated with cosmetic surgery.
Before becoming widely known as Ye’s mother and manager, West built a decades-long career in education. She taught at Chicago State University for nearly 30 years and served as chair of the university’s English Department.
Chicago State continues to operate English and creative writing programs with an emphasis on literature, writing and Black literary traditions.
Remembered For Education, Mentorship And Community
Garrard McClendon, an author, professor and former colleague of West at Chicago State, said her influence extended across education, art and culture in Chicago.
West, he said, built her career around the belief that education could change the direction of a young person’s life.
McClendon also pointed to her relationship with Ye as one of the most enduring parts of her legacy, crediting her with teaching him resilience, determination and integrity.
Harris remembered West as a source of encouragement for young people growing up around her.
“Growing up in a neighborhood that was shrouded in darkness, you always knew that you could find a light in the midst of Dr. West,” Harris said. “She made us feel limitless.”
Ye has continued to incorporate his mother’s memory throughout his music. His 2021 album, DONDA, was named for her, and her voice also appears on “Mama’s Favorite” from his more recent album, BULLY.
The Chicago tribute comes as Ye continues a series of international and U.S. stadium appearances, with additional performances scheduled in Indonesia, Texas and Arizona.
