SU dedicates house to Donald C. Wade

After being closed for more than four years due to damages inflicted by Hurricane Gustav, Southern chose to honor and showcase the remodeled Donald Caryle Wade house during the Founders’ Day Celebration on March 9,2015.
Donald Caryle Wade was born in March 1935 in Monroe, Louisiana. Wade received his Bachelor’s degree of Arts in History at Southern, and later a Masters of Science in School Administration.
In 1970 Donald Wade became the second executive director of the Southern University Alumni Federation. According to history his leadership was exemplary. He was elected in 1975 b y the Council for the Advancement and support of Education for having one of the highest incentive programs in the nation. Wade is also known for creating the Miss Bayou Classic Pageant and the Annual Round-up. After serving more than 25 years of service to Southern U, Wade passed in September 2012.
The program began at 3 p.m. on March 9, 2015. Director of Alumni Affairs, Robyn Merrick and Su Board of Supervisors member Tony Clayton presided the event. There were vocal selections from soloist Mrs. Mavis Henderson Lewis. Greetings were done by Su Board of Supervisors Chairman Dr. Leon Tarver II, SU System President Ronald Mason, and SGA Vice President, Sara Martin.
“Next, we will have a lady that just cant stay away, Ms. Margaret,” said Merrick
The Litany was done by Retired special Assistant to the Chancellor Margaret Ambrose.
“All I was asked to do was this and I promise I will be done after that, “ said Ambrose in a comical tone.
Following Family Expressions, which were spoken by his wife Beverly Dixon Wade, the audience migrated to see the unveiling of the dedicational plaque, located in the front of the house.
Being that there were other orders of business Merrick had to direct the audience to come back to their seats.
“Ok you guys, that plaque will be there tonight, tomorrow, and forever,” said Merrick in a comical tone. Soon the congregation obeyed and returned to there seats. Former Board member and pastor of the Wade family Reverend Jesses B. Bilberry of Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church lead the blessing of the house.
There was a tour of the house, with two rooms filled with memorabilia.
Guest were then served refreshments in the rear patio area.
This was an amazing celebration,” said SGA Vice President Sara Martin. As a student leader it was great to be apart of this moment.”
“I have the best Job ever,” said Merrick. “Following in Mr. Wade’s footsteps is a huge responsibility, I hope that people recognize how important alumni is to the university and why we do what we do,” finished Merrick.