LA PLATA, Md. (January 27, 2012)—Col. Donald M. Wade, a longtime resident of Charles County and member of the Charles County Board of Education, was recently honored by the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.’s, Tau Lambda Lambda Chapter with the 2011 Outstanding Charles County Citizen of the Year award. The annual award honors a community member who demonstrates extraordinary leadership at the local, regional and state levels, and serves their communities in order to enrich the lives of others.
Wade, a third-term Board member who has also served as Board chairman and vice chairman, said he was humbled to receive an award that recognizes him for doing what he loves – serving the community.
“I was surprised, yet honored, to receive this award. I truly enjoy working with children and the community. As a Board member, I am able to let community members be heard, to give a voice to their concerns and to advocate for the best interests of children,” Wade said.
Wade was honored by the Tau Lambda Lambda Chapter for his role in the implementation of the Junior Reserve Officers Training Corp (JROTC) program in Charles County’s six high schools, and for his service to children as a member of the Board of Education.
“During his three terms as a member of the Charles County Board of Education, Wade has worked tirelessly in ensuring all students receive a quality and academically challenging education. Honorees for this award have one thing in common – unselfish service to their respective communities,” said Otis M. Harvey of the Tau Lambda Lambda Chapter.
Wade joined the United States Air Force in 1960 after receiving a regular commission to serve as a Second Lieutenant from the University of Maryland, College Park ROTC program. He spent 30 years on active duty and was an Assistant Professor of Aerospace Studies at three universities. He was a teacher, a department chairperson and a faculty advisor to 21 JROTC units in Prince George's County before retiring in 2006. He was also a member of the Charles County Board of Zoning Appeals and is a graduate of the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore.
He was honored with the award at a banquet held in November.
The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., was founded in 1911 as the first Black fraternal organization dedicated to the principles of manhood, scholarship and perseverance. In 2003, the Tau Lambda Lambda chapter was established in Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties. Each year, Tau Lambda Lambda honors men from the tri-county area for demonstrating commitment to their communities.
For more information on the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, visit http://www.omegapsiphifraternity.org/.
Source: Charles County Public Schools