Every year, CBU Director of Residence Life Alton Wade, Jr. addresses parents and students during new student orientation. There are three sessions—two larger ones in the summer and then a third one for transfer and international students scheduled right before the semester starts. 

Wade uses this time to share information about encouraging independence, clear policies and expectations; highlight campus safety measures—including 24/7 monitoring, 365 days a year, and explain the benefits of living on campus. 

“One of the benefits of residence life at a small university is that when your babies come here, they aren’t an ID number,” he recalls saying to parents. “We build a relationship with them. Your child will be with other students going through the same things.

“It is more convenient for them to take advantage of our programs if they stay on campus. They can take advantage of the meal plan. They will have more access to faculty and staff. You get the whole experience of the university—everything we have to offer.” 

Wade’s experience with residential life began during his college days at Belhaven University in Jackson, Miss. The director of student life noticed how Wade, a running back, interacted with his football teammates and students in his classes, and approached him to be a resident assistant (RA).  

Wade gave it a try and found he enjoyed and excelled at being a trusted confidante and problem-solver for students living in his dorm. 

“I just like to serve other people and help,” said Wade, who referenced Mark 10:45. “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve…”

Wade was an RA for three years and then was offered a graduate assistant position in sports information that enabled him to gain additional experience and complete a master’s degree at no cost. He completed his MS in Leadership in 2010. 

After some time in the corporate world, Wade realized he missed working with college students and applied for a position as the Resident Director of Maurelian Hall and Intramural Sports Coordinator at CBU. 

He was selected and joined the university in September 2011. Less than a year later, he was promoted to his current role as Director of Residence Life where he oversees housing facilities totaling more than 1,000 beds in seven living areas. His 15-year anniversary of working at CBU will be in just a few months. 

“Alton Wade has one of the biggest hearts on campus,” said Joel Kelley, CBU’s Director of Campus Ministry. “While he works most directly with residential students, he makes an impact that extends beyond his role. He knows what it’s like to be a college student—especially a college athlete—trying to find his place in the world, and so he approaches his relationship to students with an abundance of understanding and grace. 

“Even when dealing with a difficult situation related to student conduct or infrastructure issues, he actively manifests the Lasallian principle of ‘respect for all persons,’ as he patiently and professionally addresses the situation. Students are lucky to have Alton as the Director of Residence Life.”

Wade loves the work because there’s never a dull day. Something is always happening, and no day is like the next. His heart is in the job because he loves to do his part to help students gain confidence and go from “hiding behind mom and dad’s leg” to “independent adults.” 

“It’s truly a ministry,” Wade said. “God entrusted me with a different kind of sanctuary. Instead of pews and a choir, my pulpit and place of service are within the residence halls. There, we walk alongside students—teaching them how to build meaningful communities, communicate with respect and understanding, and manage their time in ways that help them grow and succeed.”

“One of the truly special things about CBU is the diversity of our campus community,” he added. “Many of our residential students are international students and student-athletes, and it’s inspiring to watch them connect. They have a beautiful way of finding common ground, creating spaces where everyone feels comfortable, and learning to appreciate one another’s cultures and traditions. At the end of the day, we share more similarities than differences. Seeing our students grow, succeed, and ultimately walk across that stage means everything to me.”

Wade’s office is in the Rozier Center.