
University of Alabama Mourns Death of Its First Black Faculty Member
The University of Alabama community is mourning the death of its first Black faculty member, Dr. Archie Wade.
Wade, a Stillman College graduate and athlete, was a minor league baseball star before joining the St. Louis Cardinals and spending time in the majors.
At the invitation of then-President Frank Rose, he helped integrate the football stadium at UA during the Tide's 1964 game against Georgia, and UA says Wade then worked recruiting for Paul "Bear" Bryant and earned his doctorate from the Capstone.
Finally, in 1970, President David Matthew chose Wade to be the first African American faculty member at Alabama.

Wade died at 80 years old on Tuesday.
"Dr. Archie Wade’s passing is a profound loss for The University of Alabama. As UA’s first Black faculty member, his leadership and vision created opportunities that continue to benefit future generations," President Bell said. "Through his 30 years in the Department of Kinesiology and his dedication to supporting students, student-athletes and colleagues, Dr. Wade profoundly shaped our campus and community. Wade Hall stands as a lasting tribute to his extraordinary legacy. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and all who were inspired by his life and work."
Leadership at Stillman College also shared condolences after Wade's death.
“It is with great sadness we learn Dr. Archie Wade has passed away. Dr. Wade was a shining light for all of Tuscaloosa, especially the West End community. He lived his life as a trailblazer in Tuscaloosa from being a multi-sport athlete and coach at Stillman College, to integrating Bryant-Denny Stadium as a fan, and then becoming the University of Alabama’s first Black faculty member and a dedicated educator for the University," said Terrance Whittle, Stillman's Director of Athletics & Head Baseball Coach. "A polished athlete, Archie Wade shined the most on the baseball diamond, becoming Stillman’s first player to be drafted by Major League Baseball and playing in the St. Louis Cardinals organization before returning to Stillman to coach basketball and baseball. Recently, Dr. Wade was selected unanimously for induction into the Stillman College Athletics Hall of Fame, in which he will be inducted posthumously on Feb. 7 this year. On behalf of Stillman College Athletics, we extend our condolences and prayers to the Wade family.”
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