Memories of Our Brother, Student, & Friend

If the measure of a man is determined by the weight of his actions, then Michael Broadway (B-Way) measures to the highest peaks of the tallest mountains.

Soar, B-Way, Soar.

— Joshua Hoeniges, Cohort 4

A JOYFUL SMILE

I can still see his smile. He always greeted you with the most vibrant smile that made you feel welcomed, and made you want to smile. Through all his circumstances, he never stopped smiling.

— Miguel Garcia, Cohort 3

B-Way has always been a genuine spirit and an asset to his circle of friends. From the moment I met him, he continuously greeted and embraced me like a pure-hearted and loving big brother. He was full of love and joy, and I truly felt that he wanted to see me with that same joy he had. Therefore, my favorite memory of Michael Broadway is not some single moment but is the entire experience of his presence. May his genuine and loving spirit resonate throughout this community to forever inspire our hearts toward each other.

— Yaphet Davis, Cohort 4

When I was accepted into NPEP, I was nervous not knowing what to expect and who would be there. I saw B-way on the tablet as part of Cohort 1. This gave me great comfort knowing this brother would be there. When I made it to Stateville and he saw me, he greeted me with a smile and open arms. He told me whatever you need, I got you. My first class was philosophy, and guess who was the first person who approached me to help: B-Way. He used to call me Mr. Fundamental, saying I have basketball game like Tim Duncan. Although he has departed physically, I see his smile daily. Thank you, My Brother.

— Oliver Crawford, Cohort 4

We first met back in the summer of 2008. I was introduced to him on the yard by a guy who I still consider a close friend. He extended a hand and pulled me into a hug with an infectious smile that I came to know so well. No matter what I was going through, his smile always got through and when we parted ways I was smiling too.

— Edmond Duffin, Cohort 2

I can’t say that I knew Broadway well, but my experiences with my brother were always good! I never experienced Broadway in a negative moment. He would always have a smile and a joyful spirit when he greeted me! He will be missed, not only because of the impact he would have on this world as a powerful Black man, but also his love for life was palpable for us all! He will truly be missed!

— Taki Peacock, Cohort 3

Last year during football season, I overheard D.C. talking to B-Way about how he had a lot to cook, and it would be “tight” on him to try to fit B-Way into the mix. So I offered to cook for B-Way since he’s the big homie. I made him what we consider a “Big Boy,” which is a huge burrito. Little did I know I got myself into a bind with him (LOL). After he ate it, that’s all he wanted me to do for him. My last image of him was a smile on his face and him saying, “Waul won’t make that Big Boy for me no more.”

— Paul “Waul” Forbes, Cohort 2

When I visualize my memory of Mike, I can’t help but smile to myself because of his infectious energy — always bright, vibrant, and upbeat. His smile and optimism were so electric it could illuminate any room, no matter the mood. We love you and miss you, Mike.

— Michael Jorgensen, Cohort 4

I’ll always remember Michael’s smile and how he lit up the room.

— Jamie Fields, NPEP volunteer

B-Way and I bonded over our basketball and our shared love for someone we both considered a little brother (Jason Harris). As many already know very well, B-Way was the ultimate believer in one’s ability to change. He was an optimist at heart and that is what drew me closer. He could find a ray of light in the darkest of places; for many of his incarcerated brothers, he was that light. His smile, his energy, his humility will always be remembered and forever missed.

— “The Minister” CD Everett, a friend

Michael was a true joy. I feel lucky to have known him, but remain inspired by his charisma, his charm, and his continued legacy.

— Gerpha Gerlin, NPEP wellness team member

THE TRUE DEFINITION OF “BROTHER”

To a man who's done so much, I could say "thank you" a thousand times and it still wouldn't be enough. Thank you so much for teaching me the true meaning of sacrifice and loyalty and for letting me know that it's okay to be my true self. You showed me how to be selfless, generous, loving, and kind. You granted me with the gift of true brotherhood and for that I will forever be grateful. When I wanted to hate, you taught me love, and when I wanted to give up, you encouraged me to keep going. When all is said and done, you were like no other. Being there when it mattered most, a real True Brother. Rest in Power.

Your lil brother, Tony.

— Tony Triplett, Cohort 1

I don’t have a favorite memory of Michael. Just being around him made me feel like a better person. He never had a bad word to say about anyone. My world — and others’ I am sure — is dimmer with his light not in it. I will keep a flicker of it alive in my heart.

— Robert “Bobaloo” Cloutier, Cohort 1

I’m a writer, and Mike used to ask countless questions about writing a book: “How do you do this? What do you think of that?” Sometimes he would ask the same question twice in one day. I was so glad when he wrote that damn book! I was also damn proud of him. The accomplishment was so huge. When we got moved back to E-House, we were right next door to each other, and he told me he was writing his second book. Ugh! This time he had all new questions.

He told me once that he wanted to write like me. I don’t think he ever knew I wanted to write like him. Man, I miss him.

— Anthony Ehlers, Cohort 1

The Tuesday before B-Way’s passing, I spent that morning talking and laughing with my brother. For the past two months, I’d started to forgo yard, preferring the peace and solitude of my cell. However, Monday night at the end of Dayroom, B-Way — with his unique ability to coax folks into stuff they might not otherwise choose to do — said, “Shafiq, you gon’ come to yard with me in the AM?” Before I knew it, I was nodding my head in assent. I had no idea that would be the last time I’d see my beloved friend. As always, Mike was giving me a gift without my realizing the value until a later time. I will miss him, Always.

— William “Shafiq” Peeples Jr., Cohort 1

“Drizzy!” B-Way appeared at the bars, seemingly out of nowhere, snatching me out of a daydream with his energetic greeting.

“Where you comin’ from, bro?” I recovered from my agitation.

“Islamic Revival.”

“Straight up? I know you started going back to Jumu’ah/Taleem…”

“Yeah, I’m trying to get back on my path….I gotta be right for my grandkids and Shawn…”

He trailed off and we shared a rare silent moment of vulnerability and reflection.

“You straight though?” He switched the focus to me.

“I’m cool.”

“Aight. Police on my door, luh’ you bro.”

— André “Dré” Patterson, Cohort 1

On May 26, I invited B-Way to a Memorial Day celebration that my veteran’s group was putting on. It was the last time he heard me sing. I sang “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton and “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday” by Boyz II Men. He told me how much I surprised him and how he enjoyed the songs.

Today, I dedicate these two songs to him. He was more than just a classmate and friend. He was my brother! We had a natural organic connection. I’ll miss his voice calling me “Country Boy.” I’ll miss his smile warming my heart, and above all, I’ll miss his sense of humor and comedic timing. For instance, on my birthday (June 8), he called my name and said, “Happy Birthday, Country Boy” and began to play the “Happy Birthday Song” being sung by barnyard animals. Everyone in earshot got a laugh, and I smiled from ear to ear.

Thanks, B-Way, for enriching my life and showing me how to be an authentic person no matter the circumstances. I love you! I’ll miss you!

— Demetrice “DC” Crite, Cohort 1

At Professor Lackey’s book reading, Michael and I took a picture of him holding his book. He acknowledged I was his brother.

— Robert Boyd, Cohort 1

Michael Broadway: A Mind, Individual, Caring, Heroic About Educating Lamentables.

His Brave Reality Orchestrating Accomplishments, Dreaming Wisely, Acknowledging Yourself.

Thank you for believing in me and my abilities. Thank you for always having my back. Thank you for never ignoring my sorrows. Thank you for always encouraging me. Thank you for the love you would show, because it was needed. I will always be “yo Lil Bro,” and I will install the knowledge you gave me and make a difference. I love you, BIG BRO.

— Broderick Hollins, Cohort 2

Oh, Michael — you’d be proud of me! I felt a shift on the morning of July 26. Your presence was in my cell telling me to go to yard, pick up that ball again, and start hooping. Remember our last convo? You wanted me to start hooping with y’all. In your memory, I’m trying to get it back. My fat ass lost nine pounds and I’m working in the kitchen. Wishing I could flood you with food — I knew you loved to eat! But don’t worry, it’s Cohort 1 forever, and our community has come together to honor you. To make sure your memory lives on through your brothers, who love you dearly! You left a hell of a legacy and some giant footsteps to follow. I’ll keep stepping, though — I learned to keep fighting by the example you set. Love you, brother.

— Todd Mandoline, Cohort 1

B-Way was like a little brother to me. He grew up with my nephews on 103rd. B-Way had a gregarious spirit. No matter the issue, the moment, the situation, he dealt with it with a smile. My favorite memory is my first impression of B-Way. Once he realized who I was, he immediately started making calls to the streets to people who knew me, in order to preconnect them with me to help facilitate my return back to society. I shall never forget his altruism.

— Ramon “Ben Khayil” Montague, Cohort 2

A LOVING SENSE OF HUMOR

Michael and I share a myriad of memories together. I will surely miss how silly, funny, and lighthearted he was. Michael would often introduce himself as my father (Tory’s father) when speaking of his accolades and aspirations. It didn’t matter who it was, especially our professors, staff, and students at NPEP. This was Broadway’s way of welcoming outside guests to our space. Although this was his way of joking with me, I found a sense of pride, honor, and joy knowing I was worthy of him loving me and supporting me like a father should a son. He will be forever in our hearts.

— Taurean “Tory” Decatur, Cohort 1

My favorite memory actually entails a collection of all of our encounters. You see, whenever we were around each other, he would find a way to put everyone at ease with a funny or sly quip. For example, in our English class with Professor Cutler, I read a passage from a required reading — Borderlands by Gloria Anzaldúa — in Spanish. When I finished, with a serious face Broadway was like, “I taught him that.” Everyone laughed and the room was at ease.

— Lynn Green, Cohort 1

B-Way always knew how to make a life lesson sound humorous. One day I asked him whether he ever spent time in juvie (juvenile detention), and he said, “Almost. Once, when I was 14, my mom took forever coming to get me from the police station. I mean, she took a long time coming to get me. I was so glad to see her when she showed up.” I guess this would be my favorite memory because we laughed about it together.

— Abdul-Malik Muhammad, Cohort 1

I became fast friends with B-Way around 2016 or so. It seemed as if we were in every program together. I appreciated his friendship and having him in class with me because he was always positive and uplifting. Despite his intelligence, he seemed to feel that he had a lot of intellectual growing to do, so his inquisitive nature led him to absorb all that he could learn from his teachers and peers.

B-Way moved in a way that exuded love for anyone he interacted with. I know that I felt his love and genuineness every time I saw him. I was able to experience that love on June 18, 2024, the day before he passed away. We were in line waiting to be escorted to the dining room for lunch when he noticed me behind five or six other guys standing behind him. The instant he saw me, he flashed that big ol’ smile and began to walk toward me with his hand in the air. When he reached me, he slammed his hand into mine, squeezed, and pulled me in for an embrace. He never failed to greet me and show me love every time I saw him.

I won’t say that was the last time I’ve experienced his love because his love lives on in me and everyone who experienced his love. I love you, B-Way. You will be forever missed and forever in my heart. May you live eternally in God’s loving embrace, peace, and care.

— Benny Rios Donjuan, a friend

The first time I met B-Way was back in Menard. I was working as a janitor. One day he called me to his door and looked up at me and said, “Man, you are a huge dude. You must have played football!” I looked him square in the eyes and said, “Nope. I used to be a model — a runway model.” We stared at each other for a minute before we busted up laughing. Ever since then we made each other laugh.

— Dedric “Champ” Moore, Cohort 3

AN INSPIRING SPEAKER

My favorite memory of and with Michael was the day of graduation. He and I were discussing his speech, and as a result instead of using his moment to praise Stateville, he used the moment to shine his light on himself and those who helped him along the way. Michael gave us all the awe-inspiring, tear-producing, and impactful line, “Mamma, how did I do?” A line that many of us wish we had the opportunity to say to our loved ones. Michael, you did well!

— Christopher Greathouse, Cohort 4

I was inspired by Broadway’s graduation speech in relation to his beloved mother. The part that moved me most is when he asked his mother whether he had done enough to be good enough. I believe that Broadway was able to accomplish what thousands of youths don’t get to see because of the street life they live. One thing that I can relate to is wanting to make our mothers proud of our own worth and our good will to carry on. For that I will continue to carry Broadway in memory and in my heart’s goodwill to care. R.I.P. Broadway!! One love, Charles.

— Charles Serrano, Cohort 2

I first met Michael here in Stateville in 2020. Sharing space and time with him was a blessing that won’t be forgotten. Not many people in here remain positive, but no matter what he encountered, it didn’t change his radiant personality. There is no way to feel alone or down around him. When he gave his graduation speech, his heartfelt and emotional words got me emotional, knowing how hard he fought to make his momma and family proud.

— Hugo Ocon, Cohort 3

My favorite memory of Michael Broadway would have to be his speech at his graduation, where he spoke to his mother. That speech had such a strong impact on me. It brought me to tears. My other favorite memories would be times spent talking, playing ball on the yard, and just kicking it in the cell house. One huge thing about B-Way is his humble ways and how any and every interaction with him felt genuine. I really do miss that brother, and I pray he is in a better place.

— Christopher Douglas, Cohort 3

A WISE, DEDICATED WRITER

Please let Michael’s family know that Michael inspired me in my journey to publish my own book. He would always take the time to encourage and mentor me. I’ve actually known B-Way since I was a kid. He and my older sister, Tamekia Dixon, grew up around one another. I loved hearing stories he’d tell about people from our neighborhood. I could tell too many, so I’ll focus on his book One Foot In and his deepfelt desire to humanize the characters in his book with the hope of having the world respond to people from communities like Roseland with true respect and dignity.

— Mark “Yohanan” Dixon, Cohort 2

When I arrived at NPEP and introduced myself as a published author, Michael told me about his book on the way. We sat in the dayroom the day it went live on Amazon. I saw the same joy and sense of accomplishment that I had when my book did the same. I quickly ordered One Foot In. He autographed it and inspired me to work on my next book. The last study hall we attended, I read excerpts from his sequel. His legacy is established. He inspired and motivated me in ways I’ll never forget. Rest in Power.

— Jabari Nicks, Cohort 4

Michael was an inspiration. With all that he dealt with, he always continued to rise and overcome. As an aspiring author myself, seeing Michael fulfill a dream of writing and publishing One Foot In under the conditions of a carceral environment put into perspective what’s possible. He opened doors with his words and shined a light on all that we can do if we have the right mindset. He will be sorely missed not only by those who knew him personally but by the world that he was trying to positively impact. Rest in Peace, B-Way. We got you now.

— Ian Valencia, Cohort 4

One of the first conversations I had with Michael, he was showing me the cover art for his book One Foot In. I congratulated him and said, “That’s a great accomplishment.” He told me, “You’re gonna get a great education and be proud of yourself, but make sure you use this opportunity to leave your mark and create something memorable.” Michael was a true inspiration.

— Jason Gorham, Cohort 3

My heart aches in this moment. There is a memory that will forever stay with me. We were walking around the yard about 15 years ago, just building on our past, present, and what we dreamed for the future. I told him that I wanted to change the community. He said, “Cin, we are going to change the world one mind at a time.” I understood then, but today my understanding is really clear. B-Way set the example for me to make the needed change, and all I had to do is get one foot in their mind. I wouldn’t know it would turn into a book. That statement is a blueprint for change — one foot in their mind, one foot in their heart, then you are all in to help bring the needed change. I will forever love my brother. I will carry him with me in all that I do.

— Cincere Knowledge (Jamal Jones), Cohort 4

One of the last times I saw Michael was at his graduation. We were thrilled to have Ta-Nehisi Coates as the keynote speaker for NPEP’s inaugural graduating class, but he brought his prepared remarks on his iPad. While this would have been a perfectly ordinary plan at any other graduation, our students were graduating in a maximum-security prison, and even Ta-Nehisi Coates can’t just bring an iPad into Stateville. He would have to give his remarks off the cuff.

I remember being really moved that he spent so much time with the graduates while they were getting ready, donning their gowns, adjusting their caps, intermittently spot-checking and teasing one another about how they looked. When Coates stood to give his remarks, he explained his mistake and we all laughed at such a perfect anecdote to highlight the miracle at hand: where even Ta-Nehisi Coates cannot bring an iPad, these guys had just earned degrees from Northwestern University.

Going further, Coates immediately singled out Michael, noting that he had accomplished all of this while fighting late-stage cancer, and also, somehow, writing a book? Every person in the room beamed with pride. I'm not sure whether he knew yet (surely someone told him, eventually), but in the audience for Coates' address was Michael's mother, who that morning had seen and held her son for the first time in nearly two decades. It was an unforgettable day, in an unforgettable life. I will never forget him.

— Lauren Leydon-Hardy, founding GSAC member & admissions committee member for Cohort 1

A LEADER BY EXAMPLE

He was a man-made miracleHis smiles contagiousHis laughter electricHis passion omnipotentHis tutorship warm and directHis character humblingHis visions otherworldlyHis love eternalHis memories still here.

— Will Williams, Cohort 3

He was my Muslim brother and fellow NPEP community member. It hurts to believe that his life was needlessly cut short, but I am comforted by knowing that ALLAH is the Best of Planners, and He allowed B-Way to fulfill his purpose here on earth. My favorite memory of B-Way was seeing him every Friday at Jumu’ah (Muslim Service), being greeted by his bright smile and kind words. He was a leader who led by action. I will never forget him.

— De’Andre “Furooq” Robinson, Cohort 3

There are so many memories I have shared with B-Way. It is difficult to share just one here. My favorite thing about him is his ability to laugh in the face of adversity. While we were downstate, there were some tough times, and his laugh and smile helped get both of us through it all. A favorite moment of mine was when we were facilitating Lifestyle Redirection class. B-Way was running late for class and all the participants were asking whether B-Way was going to make it to class. You could feel the love from them all! He was just five minutes late, and you could feel the anticipation of his arrival.

— Scot (Scoti) Miller, Cohort 4

In the latter part of the pandemic, my job assignment was a “Cell House Gallery Worker.” During this time, Stateville unfortunately suffered from a water crisis, where we could not drink out of the faucet in our cells and the prison provided water in a 50-pound bag daily. Each man would receive eight bottles of water.

As the worker, I would have to carry these bags to where my and Michael’s cells were located and distribute it. The men were asked to keep empty bottles and I was to pour water into their bottles. Some guys would try to get 10-12 bottles a day, but B-Way would do all he could to make my job easier. Sometimes he would just ask for four or five bottles of water to make sure I had enough to finish the job.

His discipline was infectious and admired. When I could, I would give B-Way a whole 50-pound bag of water, against the rules. I wanted to reward him for being so disciplined in such a dire time. B-Way embodied such strength in a subtle way. He was a great leader and showed by example.

He will always and forever be a genuine friend.

— Kevin Scott, Cohort 2

I had the honor of meeting Michael for the first time while on the yard. He had an approachable character that gave me confidence to speak. From that day on, Michael would be a man who I could trust, look for advice from, and build on any ideas. He was an encouraging leader with a great smile and an amazing storyteller. I will always remember the talks we had about community, family, and life and will carry his memory forever.

— Kobie Singleton, Cohort 3

While Broadway was our TA in one of our recent classes, he and I were asked by our professor to walk with her to the principal’s office to retrieve laptops for our class that morning. While I could hold my own, and my safety level was good as I’m in Stateville’s school building five days a week, it was during this short walk with Professor Aquiline and Broadway that I personally felt protected by his presence when he assured Professor Aquiline that we had her back and that she was safe. His charisma and confidence were on full display that day. I regret not telling him how much I admired that charisma.

— Donnell Green, Cohort 3

A MENTOR TO ALL AND AN ENCOURAGING BEACON OF LIGHT

My favorite memory of my brother B-Way took place in the E-House dayroom. Three of my cohort members and I were huddled together on the leather couch, discussing our Oakton graduation. B-Way came by with a big smile and said, “I’m proud of you brothers for your ability to come together and do something big for your graduation.” I was encouraged tremendously.

— Demetrius Cunningham, Cohort 3

I’ll always remember how Michael would seize the moment to center others. He would do this in public and in private. He knew I was having certain issues, and he would let me know that as soon as I was able to merge my identity with my academic personality, everything would be just fine. Michael was right.

— Leon Fields, Cohort 3

The memory I would like to share of B-Way is fairly new and helped me regain my focus after I almost made a bad decision. B-Way was a different type of dude who always paid attention to details in people, places, and things. Although we didn’t talk as much as he talked with others, he took his time to approach me and tell me he knew it was hard to walk away from the situation I did and that he was proud of me for doing it. That conversation, which was only a few words, helped me to totally refocus, and I will always carry it with me through the many dark days ahead. Stay strong and together, but there was a real loss. May Allah be pleased with you, B-Way.

— Abdul Karĩm (James Hale), Cohort 4

At a critical moment in my transition into this environment, B-Way gave me an unexpected gift of guidance. Not knowing who to trust my ideas with and my being standoffish was not enough to stop B-Way from being who he is. It was due to my demeanor, the way that I view life, that caused B-Way and me to start bonding. Each moment we spent was brief but well spent. He blessed me with his wisdom and did more than just point me in the right direction. B-Way actually lived the message he spoke and his legacy will forever live on.

— Darion Nance, Cohort 4

I was having trouble being at Stateville when I first came here to start NPEP. Michael did not know me but he could hear me talking about my problems and he understood that I just needed someone to talk to, so he pulled up a chair to the front of my cell and just sat and listened to me complain for the whole dayroom (three hours!). He didn’t tell me I was wrong or I needed to suck it up. He just let me vent and that is what I needed. He is loved and will be missed.

— Anonymous brother

There was a moment when Michael and I realized we had mutual associates when we were free, and while we bonded over knowing the same people, engaging in nostalgia and reminiscing, we never stopped leaving the past in the past. I valued his ability to remember yesteryear, but still to stand firm in the present and also be willing to look forward toward the future. With that said, there is not a single memory that can capture his aura.

— Brandon V. Wyatt, Cohort 2

One week before Michael’s passing, he took it upon himself to continue to be the brother and encouraging beacon of light that I needed. That week, I helped a fellow inmate reset his broken ankle in place while we were at the yard. Michael Broadway saw that, and he wanted to make sure that I knew it. He approached me and said, “Congo, you are my hero and from this point on I’m calling you Dr. Congo. When everyone ran away from the guy with the broken ankle, you stayed with him and helped him. You are my hero.” In addition, B-Way gave me my first opportunity at stardom. He asked me to be part of a panel for his book event for One Foot In. I really loved that. The book event was great.

— Palfrid Mihindou, Cohort 4

One thing that I will never forget about Michael is his willingness to be there for others. He personally looked over a paper that I wrote to show me where I could make it better. I had gotten a lot of feedback from the professor and was about to trash that paper and start over, but Mike encouraged me to not do that because what I wrote was perfect. It just needed to be tightened up. I listened to him and ended up getting an A on that paper.

— Shawn Thigpen, Cohort 3

B-Way was a tutor in our English 102 comp class. I had missed 10 weeks of class due to a suspension. There were only four weeks left, and I was determined to finish the class. B-Way gave me a big hug my first class back and told me, “I missed you, lil bro.” I told him that I was going to finish the class with the rest of my cohort even though I was behind, and he smiled and said, “I know you will, and I’ll be here if you need any help!” He believed in me and also encouraged me to be the best version of myself, and I appreciate his perspective on life and the joy he brought to this world.

— Marquis Harrison, Cohort 3

One memory I have of Michael Broadway is when he congratulated me on finding my own lane. He said that some guys were saying that he and others were standing in the way. He liked that, in spite of what they thought, I had become one of the editorial team and writers for the Northwestern Insider. He was happy that I was graduating from Northwestern University, like he did, and he wanted me to continue to grow. I promised him I would. He flashed that perfect smile and gave me a hug. “I love you, Bro. See you soon.”

— Flynard “Fly” Miller, Cohort 2

My favorite memory about Michael Broadway is when we used to have discussion in Jum’ah that revolved around Islam and academics. Coming from two different generations, Michael knew like I knew there is a disconnect between the younger generation and the older generation, so Michael and I would have in-depth talks about closing that gap and reconnecting both generations. I really enjoyed those conversations because they felt like they mattered.

— Tevin Louis, Cohort 3

When survivors describe a loved one who has passed too soon or unexpectedly, there seems to be one common trait they use to reference their late loved one’s character: “They were always smiling.” This description, of a consistent smile, is true of my late friend Michael “B-Way” Broadway. Except there was something much deeper and distinctive about that warm, pearl-white smile B-Way kept on his face. It was certainly infectious and sincere, but it was also purposeful. When he smiled it wasn’t necessarily because he was happy. It was his way of trying to give you a reason to smile and to check on you. If you didn’t smile back, he’d always stop and ask, “Is everything cool?” or “Are you good?” On most occasions, this can be but an empty gesture. They walk off before you can even muster an answer. Not B-Way. If time permitted, he would listen to my issue and offer up something to challenge my perspective and inspire a positive outlook.

In the free world, an untimely smile can be mistaken as a provocation. “What you smiling at?” In prison, smiles are definitely not plastered on everyone’s faces — which makes smiles like B-Way’s even rarer. Even at Menard, a maximum-security prison notorious for its racially hostile and violent atmosphere, B-Way showed his pearly whites. His smiles were never off-putting or misplaced. He was just trying to make the best out of a shitty situation and appreciated that no matter how bad it was, it could be worse.

He also used his smile to disarm and to inspire. The first time I met him, I was still young and reckless. I had a dispute with staff and B-Way used his words, his own transformation, and, of course, his smile, to de-escalate the conflict. Once the volatility of the situation died down, I asked him: “Why are you always smiling, bro?” He looked at me and said, “Because I know what it feels like to not have any reason to.”

B-Way wasn’t the type of person who smiled because everything was always rainbows and gumdrops. He smiled when he was fighting Stage 4 cancer because he knew, from his experience, that things could be worse. Surely he had his own sordid past and struggles, but he smiled with the purpose of inspiring others to reevaluate their situation, to envision something greater, and to triumph toward a higher purpose. When he smiled, it wasn’t that he had forgotten where he was or where he had been. B-Way smiled because he refused to allow his circumstances to define his character. He smiled because he valued how far he had come and he knew exactly where he was going. He was a butterfly that never forgot that he was once a caterpillar. He used his beautiful wings — his smile — to help transform a person, a situation, and influence this transformation for others. Behind B-Way’s smile were his selflessness, his story of transformation, and the kind of inspiration that this world will sorely miss.

Smile on and fly away, my brother.

— Jamal Bakr, a friend

A STUDENT & A SCHOLAR

I will always remember watching Michael file into the purple classroom for our 6:30 a.m. DTEN/Zoom Social Problems class during the pandemic. He'd make his way to his front-row seat, put his face right up close to the camera, smile and say hi before he got down to business and let me know he had a LOT of ideas to cover in that day's discussion. His contagious energy, keen critical eye, ability to find amusement and profundity in small things, and genuine care and concern for his people are what I find myself missing most. I'm grateful for our years of correspondence and friendship and I know his influence will continue to shape me as a teacher forever.

— Professor Megan Klein

Michael was a wonderful student and a beloved classmate. He was an exemplary interlocutor in class: thoughtful in conversation, and ready to comment on the day's readings. But what shone through most was his character: he was quick with a smile and gracious in conversation with others — as ready with a joking quip as he was with a compliment to his fellow classmates. He will be sorely missed.

— Professor Sandy Goldberg

In a poetry class, you come to know students in a deep and abiding way because they attend to their own dreams, fears, and imagination to enter worlds that are infinitely foreign yet strangely the same as their own. Michael did this with honest self-reflection and heartfelt precision. He had a passion for the transformative power of language and his enthusiasm was contagious. His classmates eagerly waited his turn to perform the assigned poem.

In our first conversation (and my first day of teaching at Stateville), Michael discovered that I taught English and drama at his old high school — Percy Julian High — before he was old enough to attend. We laughed and talked about how the school had changed for better and worse, his favorite classes and teachers, and the old neighborhood. He was warm and kind. What also impressed me was how he truly loved learning, creative thinking, and expressing ideas, even as early as his high school years!

Sometimes, before and after classes, a couple years after our class ended, we’d see each other passing back and forth outside or in the education building. Michael would call out, “Love ya’, Prof,” and I’d call back, “Love ya’ too, Mr. Broadway!”

— Professor D. Soyini Madison

Although Michael has passed on, he and his kind eyes will be with me for as long as I live. His graduation photo with his grandbabies is hanging in my office; I'm always so proud to tell people I had the opportunity to teach him. I will always remember his essay about drinking water fountains during little league practice as a kid, and the connections he made between lead, drinking water, and violence in his neighborhood. Broadway, you are missed.

— Unsigned

We are at our best when we are connected. Michael embodied this. He was deeply connected with himself and others. When I had individual meetings with team members, Michael explained that sometimes he stepped back for students lacking support. He knew he had strong family support that not all people experienced. He was loved, and he felt it.

Michael's very existence was a form of resistance to the carceral system. He lived out abolitionist ideals each day by creating the realities we want to see. His approach to life challenged systemic norms of violence. Everyone who knew Michael was enriched by his presence. His legacy endures through the relationships he developed and the lives he touched, reminding us of the transformative power of genuine human connection.

I hope to honor Michael by carrying forward his light.

— Professor Annie Buth

Michael was a student in the course on the mathematics of voting that I taught at Stateville in the fall of 2019. I will always remember his superlative final paper on the design of a voting system for the Chicago School Board. Anyone who has the chance to visit Stateville is aware that Michael did not have ideal conditions for our class: his cell had no horizontal surface on which to write, and the use of regular pens or pencils was forbidden.

Against all odds, our students put a lot of effort into their study, and some of them revealed new ways of viewing the material that I, as their teacher, was grateful to have been exposed to. Michael was one of these students. I wrote in 2020, when there was a chance he might be paroled, that I hoped that I would have the chance to welcome him into my classes on the Evanston campus one day. He was patient, thoughtful, considerate, and a great partner in the enterprise of learning.

— Professor Ezra Getzler

Michael was a student in my playwriting class at Stateville. The last assignment for the class was to write a play inspired by a song. When I announced it, he smiled a huge smile (he was always smiling, but this smile was really super huge) and said, "I know exactly what I want to write!" And he did! His short play, "Project Window," was inspired by the relationship between his mother and his aunt and their long and lively phone conversations. It was funny and sweet and wise — just like Michael. He is sorely missed. The world is an infinitely poorer place without his smile.

— Professor Rebecca Gilman