Dr. Wade Newman, founder of Eagle Valley Family Dentistry and Lieutenant Colonel in the Air National Guard, has announced the establishment of the Dr. Wade Newman Award for Entrepreneurs, a $1,000 prize aimed at supporting undergraduate students pursuing entrepreneurship. The award seeks to honor Dr. Newman's commitment to service and leadership by investing in students who aspire to build businesses that create positive community impact.
Dr. Newman's career exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit the award celebrates. After earning his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from West Virginia University School of Dentistry in 2000, he built a thriving dental practice while serving over 20 years in the Air National Guard. His journey from police officer to dental professional to business owner demonstrates resilience, adaptability, and vision. Throughout his career, Dr. Newman has balanced multiple roles, including providing compassionate dental care, serving as President of the Pennsylvania Dental Association, and completing military missions in challenging environments such as Bani Bangou, Africa. In 2018, he founded Eagle Valley Family Dentistry in Milesburg, Pennsylvania, on core values of integrity, service, and excellence.
The award, valued at $1,000, is open to undergraduate students enrolled at accredited U.S. colleges or universities who are pursuing entrepreneurship as a career. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and submit an original essay of 500-750 words. The essay prompt asks students to describe how they plan to integrate social responsibility and community impact into their entrepreneurial journey, addressing a specific need or challenge and how they will measure success beyond profit.
Applications must be submitted by July 15, 2026, to apply@drwadenewmanaward.com, including the essay, academic transcripts, and proof of enrollment. The winner will be announced on August 15, 2026. Essays will be evaluated on commitment to ethical entrepreneurship, clarity of vision, understanding of social responsibility, writing quality, and passion for community impact.
Dr. Newman stated, "Throughout my career in dentistry, military service, and business ownership, I've learned that the most rewarding success comes from serving others. I'm honored to support a student who understands that entrepreneurship is not just about building a business—it's about building something that matters." For more information, visit https://drwadenewmanaward.com/.
