T. Rogers Wade, distinguished University of Georgia alumnus, civic leader and longtime supporter of the UGA Libraries, died Dec. 7, leaving a lasting legacy marked by public service, philanthropy and leadership across the state.
Wade was a 40-year member of the Richard B. Russell Foundation Board of Trustees, where he played a prominent role in advancing the foundation’s support of UGA programs, including the Russell Library for Political Research and Studies, one of three special collections units housed in the Richard B. Russell Building Special Collections Libraries. His leadership helped strengthen the preservation and study of Georgia’s political history.
Earlier this month, UGA honored Wade with the Vince and Barbara Dooley Friends of the UGA Libraries Award, recognizing decades of generosity and advocacy on behalf of the Special Collections Libraries. The celebration included the dedication of a meeting room in the Russell Building named for Rogers and his late wife, Marcia, both known for their deep commitment to UGA and to public service across Georgia.
“Rogers Wade was one of the most admired civic leaders in our state and a cherished member of the University of Georgia family,” said President Jere W. Morehead. “His wisdom, integrity and deep commitment to public service strengthened institutions across Georgia, including our own. I was honored to call him a friend, and I join countless others in mourning his passing.”
Wade’s public service spanned numerous leadership roles. A former vice chairman of the University System of Georgia Board of Regents, he served as chief of staff to U.S. Sen. Herman Talmadge, president and CEO of the Georgia Public Policy Foundation and special adviser to Gov. Nathan Deal. His experience and counsel were sought regularly by leaders in government, business and higher education.
A founding member of Leadership Georgia, Wade worked for decades to prepare and mentor young civic, business and community leaders throughout the state. He also served on the boards of the Georgia Research Alliance and the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, and he was a member of the advisory board that led to the establishment of the UGA College of Engineering.
In 2018, Wade and his wife established the Rogers and Marcia Wade Library Experiential Learning Fund, which supports hands-on, research-based learning opportunities for UGA students. Wade also donated documents and memorabilia from his work with Sen. Talmadge and recorded several oral histories for the Russell Library.
“As we mourn our dear friend, I am grateful that we had the opportunity to celebrate Rogers Wade earlier this month with many of his close friends present,” said Toby Graham, associate provost and university librarian. “We cherish the legacy Rogers and Marcia left during their decades of public service. Undoubtedly, their impact will continue to be felt by generations of leaders to come.”