This school has consistently been known for its strong academics and close-knit community. Central to this legacy is Dr. Michael J. Doran, the school’s esteemed principal for over a decade. His sudden death in August 2015 was felt deeply by students, faculty and the broader community. A lasting tribute to his life’s work emerged from this loss: the Dr. Michael J. Doran Scholarship.
Established by his family in April 2016, the scholarship embodies Dr. Doran’s unwavering commitment to education and his belief in the transformative power of learning. It provides financial aid to graduates whose parents did not have the opportunity to attend college, as well as to students facing particularly compelling circumstances.
Dr. Doran’s journey began in Newcastle, County Down, Northern Ireland, and later in Reading, England, where he was raised in a family that deeply valued reading and education. As the first in his family to attend university, he understood both the challenges and triumphs of higher education. This personal experience fueled his dedication to ensuring that others had the support and encouragement needed to pursue their academic dreams.
Throughout his tenure at the school, Dr. Doran was more than an administrator. He was a mentor, advocate and friend. His philosophy was simple yet profound: “Be good. Do good.”
The impact of the scholarship is reflected in the words of its recipients. “Receiving the Doran Scholarship has been nothing short of a blessing in opening a multiplicity of gateways throughout my university career. Significantly lightening my financial load, Doran allowed me to put my dreams into action,” 2023 Dr. Doran Scholar Landon Townsend said.
Current freshman Eleazar Escamilla recognizes the scholarship’s value and how it could impact his future. “My mom didn’t go to college, so I would apply for this scholarship. It would help me with my future education and importantly, getting a job,” he said.
The selection process is both thoughtful and reflective of Dr. Doran’s values. Applicants are invited to write an essay responding to a prompt that encourages introspection and a commitment to integrity and service. The 2025 prompt asks students to reflect on how they plan to carry these values forward in their lives and education. They are encouraged to share specific experiences where they have demonstrated these principles, such as helping others overcome obstacles, standing up for what is right or leading by example in their community. This approach ensures that recipients are not only academically capable but also aligned with the principles Dr. Doran endorsed.
More than just financial support, the scholarship stands as a lasting tribute to Dr. Doran’s legacy. It reinforces the idea that education is a powerful tool for both personal and communal growth and that with the right support, students can overcome obstacles and achieve their aspirations.
In remembering Dr. Doran, the community not only honors a remarkable educator but also preserves his vision of a world where education is accessible, valued and transformative. The Dr. Michael J. Doran Scholarship serves as a testament to his life’s work, ensuring that his spirit continues to inspire and support generations of students to come.
For those interested in supporting this mission and learning more, the scholarship’s website offers detailed information on donation opportunities and application procedures. Through collective effort, Dr. Doran’s challenge to “Be good. Do good.” remains alive, guiding the school community and beyond toward a brighter future.
