The Senator Don Oliver Studio is a new state of the art practice and teaching studio designed to inspire musicians to higher levels of creativity and collaboration. In February 2020, Wade made a gift to the Dalhousie Performing Arts Campaign to honour Senator Oliver’s extensive ties to Dalhousie and celebrate his lifelong connection to the arts.
In 2006, Wade established the James R. Pearcey Scholarship in memory of James R. Pearcey. James was a MUN Civil Engineering graduate and president of the class of 1993. The award goes to a student who shows promise in entrepreneurship.
Jared Butt says receiving the James R. Pearcey Award for Entrepreneurship changed his life.
Wade is a founding supporter and donor of The Centre for Entrepreneurship. The Centre promotes entrepreneurship as a career path for students at MUN by exposing students to the experience of starting and operating a business.
The QEII Foundation contributes to life-changing experiences for patients and their loved ones by funding new technologies, medical research, innovation and professional education. Wade has been an ongoing donor and has served on the Board of Trustees since June 2015.
In 2016, Wade’s donation established the DC Makes program at the Discovery Centre in Halifax. DC Makes fosters an entrepreneurial mind-set in youth by providing a place to connect, plus the tools, resources, and mentors to support them. Wade also funds the Maker League Camps that run in conjunction with the DC Makes program.
Family SOS is a local, child-centred non-profit organization focused on building strong and healthy families. Their Courage to Give Back Awards recognize exceptional individuals in the community. Wade donates annually to support their efforts.
Wade supports and donates his time to Captains & Cooks, a unique fundraising event in Halifax. Local restaurants team up with the business community to host a day on the water with a gourmet lunch enjoyed on a beautiful boat. 100% of proceeds raised go to local charities.
Senator Don Oliver Scholarship at Dalhousie University
The Senator Don Oliver Scholarship was established at Dalhousie University with a lead gift from Wade Dawe, in honour of his longtime friend. The two are excited to help further the societal change which Don Oliver has affected throughout his time at Dalhousie University and as the first black male senator.
The scholarship will provide financial support and mentoring advice to African, Nova Scotian students. Senator Oliver believes it will inspire recipients to consider postgraduate education and research, which would be transformative for them and for Canada.
