Leadership

Charles B. Wade, Jr. image

Charles B. Wade, Jr.

  • Trustee, 1983–1994

After graduating from Duke University in 1937, Mr. Wade served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1944. A native of Morehead City, N.C., he attained the rank of Major and was awarded the Legion of Merit. He retired as Senior Vice President of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. He served as a Trustee of The Duke Endowment from 1983 to 1994 and was honored by the Endowment with a grant to Duke University to establish the Charles B. Wade Oratorio Endowment for Duke Chapel. At his death, Mary D.B.T. Semans, Chairman of the Endowment and great-niece of founder James B. Duke, said, “Through his outstanding leadership in education, business, and civic affairs, Mr. Wade has made significant contributions to society at local, state, and national levels.” He loved sailing and fishing and also enjoyed hunting and golf.

“Through his outstanding leadership in education, business, and civic affairs, Mr. Wade has made significant contributions to society at local, state, and national levels.”

Mary D.B.T. Semans