From Hackberry to Harvard

November 17, 2022

When Rich Doggett came to Purcell Marian, he joined a tradition set by his father, Arnold and his older brother, Ken. Arnold was a Purcell graduate of 1949. His brother, Ken, a Purcell graduate of 1981. Rich joined the Cavalier tradition, and graduated from Purcell Marian in 1987.

As a recent Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee this year, Rich reflected on his time at Purcell Marian, and why he still supports the Castle:

“We were lucky enough, with the Class of 1987 to have something very special. And what I remember are the friendships. On any given weekend now, there’s still 20 or 25 of us that can still get together…I don’t remember a ton of games. But what I do remember are the friendships.”

While Rich says he doesn’t remember a lot of games, we certainly do! He was a member of the 1986 state championship football team, and supported his varsity teammates the year boys basketball won their own state championship in 1985.

After graduating from Purcell Marian, Rich then went on to Harvard University, where he played football as well. He continued his education and went to University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill and received his MBA in 1995.

Rich credits much of his success to his upbringing and the support he found at Purcell Marian High School.

“All the teachers, all the coaches. I had wonderful opportunities. Without those opportunities, you don’t get to develop the way that I did.”

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