Born to wealth, Alexander Hadden dedicated most of his life to helping better the lot of those less well off.  He was an individual who comfortable mixing with all strata of society as he went about the business of improving social welfare. 

As a young man, Alexander wanted to attend college, but his father, John Hadden, felt that a post-secondary education was unnecessary because the skills needed to successfully carry on the family's China silk import business could be learned on the job.  Contrary to his father's wishes, Alexander decided to attend Columbia University.  By saving his allowance and depriving himself of luxuries, he was able to turn his dream into reality.  John, who was proud of his son's initiative, was forced to admit that Alexander was not interested in working for the family business and would lead a life that only he was to fashion for himself.

After graduating from college, Alexander was drawn to volunteer work and became involved in programs for young working men, alcoholics, and prison inmates.  Drawing on his strong religious beliefs, he was able to help troubled men turn their lives around.  Committed to a higher quality of justice, he founded and became the first president of the Grand Jury Association.  The association consisted of a group of citizens who strove to protect defendants from potential negligence by the legal system.  Alexander's interest in the welfare of all social classes also prompted him to organize charity dances and debutante balls where he frequently served as cotillion leader.

Alexander Hadden and Maude Miner met serveral times in connection with their social work.  Their acquaintance developed into a strong friendship culminating in marriage in 1924.  After co-founding the Institute of World Affairs with his wife, Alexander remained an active force within the organization, serving as Treasurer of the Board of Directors from 1935 to 1942.  Alexander Mectier Hadden passed away on September 2, 1942 at the age of 85.  His lifelong dedication to good works, both in the U.S. and throughout the world, will long be remembered.