Julius (Jake) Jennings Wade, Jr. '50
(Awarded 2010)

Sixty years ago, Jake Wade filled out exactly one college application, and when he was admitted, he considered himself lucky to have the opportunity to attend a school like Davidson. Years have passed. Jake graduated with a major in History, he and his Davidson roommate, Bo Roddey, married sisters, and he had three children. But in all the years since Jake received his diploma, he has never once forgotten alma mater.

Jake says it best: "You've got to pay rent for your time on this planet." Fortunately for us, he pays more than his share. He is an Annual Fund Class Chair, a Class Secretary, and this year, he has served as the Class of 1950's 60th Reunion Chair. He has even graciously shared his family with the college. Brother Hamlin, son Jay, and three nieces and nephews - Landis Wade, Hunter Roddey, and Mrs. Ann Roddey Bernhardt - have each, in their turn, signed their name to the Honor Code and received their Davidson diplomas.

A decade ago, Jake was inducted into the Davidson College Athletics Hall of Fame for his athletic prowess on both the football field and the baseball diamond. Many of you may recall the 1949 football game against NC State in which Jake intercepted four passes and returned one for a touchdown, helping to lift the Wildcats to victory. Just as worthy of note, if not more so, is Jake's dedication and service off the field. In Charlotte, he has been coaching the same youth baseball team, in the same league, on the same field, with the same sponsor, since 1957. The Myers Park Trinity Little League named the field in honor of him, and next week, Jake will be recognized by the Stratford Richardson YMCA with the Legacy of Coaching Award.

Sixty years ago, Jake Wade filled out exactly one college application, and since the day he set foot on campus as a freshman, the Davidson family has considered itself lucky to have an alumnus like him.

Jake, your gifts of time, energy, and enthusiasm have set an example for Wildcats of the past and present, and will continue to inspire others for many years to come. For your faithful and willing support of Davidson College and for your innumerable contributions to the Charlotte-area community, the Davidson College Alumni Association honors you, Jake Wade, with the Alumni Service Award.