WEHS Principal Receives TMEA’s Distinguished Administrator Award

Wylie East High School Principal Tiffany Doolan was recently awarded the Texas Music Educators Association’s Distinguished Administrator Award.

WEHS choir directors, Dr. Nathan Dame, Ashley Dame, Andrew Carr, and Elizabeth Harris, nominated Doolan for the honor and presented her with the outstanding achievement in front of fellow principals and district leaders.

“To be nominated by our choir directors and surprised in such a meaningful way is something I will never forget,” Doolan said. “This recognition reflects the heart, dedication, and talent that make Wylie East so special, and I am incredibly proud to be part of it.”

Dr. Dame said that they nominated Doolan because she embodies the kind of leadership that inspires excellence: visionary, student-centered, and unfailingly supportive.

“Our music and fine arts programs at Wylie East thrive because she believes deeply in our students and in the power of the arts,” Dame said. “Our students are truly able to shine because of her endless support!”

While Executive Director of Fine Arts Craig Needham was presenting recent Fine Arts accolades to the district administration, he concluded by bringing WEHS choir directors in to surprise Doolan with the award.

“The Wylie East Choir program is among the largest and most accomplished in Texas with over 400 singers and multiple national conference appearances,” Needham said. “Their invitation to perform at the Texas Music Educators Association conference marks the first time a Wylie ISD group has been selected for TMEA— the equivalent of a state championship and a significant milestone for both the program and our district.”

Emotions were high as Doolan accepted the award, touched by the moment and the bouquet of Wylie East–colored hydrangeas and roses.

“Receiving the TMEA Distinguished Administrator Award is a great honor,” Doolan said. “Our Fine Arts programs at Wylie East are filled with extraordinary students and educators, and supporting their passion has always been a privilege.”

TMEA recognizes upper-level school administrators across the state who are instrumental in preserving quality music education programs on their campuses and in their districts.

According to TMEA, “It is crucial to highlight the many successes present in schools across our state…Administrators have great influence over a program’s opportunity for success.”

Congratulations, Mrs. Doolan!