Born in Alleghany County, Dr. Irwin attended the Georgetown University School of Dentistry in Washington, D.C., graduating in 1955. He practiced in Sparta from 1955 until 1960, he returned to Georgetown to join the faculty where he served as Associate Dean of Students. He also served his country in the U.S. Navy Hospital Corps from 1945 until 1947. He returned to his native Alleghany County in 2004. This scholarship honors Dr. Wade Irwin and his commitment to the dental profession.