In 1991, in an effort to recognize East High graduates who excelled in their chosen fields, teachers Dennis Shearer and Jim Farley – and then principal of East High School, Charles Rodriguez – formulated a plan to achieve this dream. Initially, school valedictorians and salutatorians as well as past principals were recognized. Later, the plans were expanded to honor outstanding graduates for their contributions to the community, state, nation, and world. It was decided that non-graduates who contributed significantly in service to East High should also be recognized.

Guidelines for selection to the Golden Eagle and Service to East Hall of Fame were developed, and under the guidance of the first Hall of Fame committee consisting of Bernadette Padula, Jack Pecoraro, Dennis Shearer, and Carol Wheeler, the first Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place on April 25, 1997.

The Golden Eagle and Service to East Hall of Fame provided the framework for the East High Athletics Hall of Fame which inducted its first student athletes and coaches in 2006. Similarly, the East High Activities Hall of Fame recognized student achievement and coaching/sponsorship involvement in the numerous extracurricular activities at East with its first induction ceremony in 2011.

Members of the Golden Eagle and Service to East, the Athletics, and the Activities Halls of Fame are recognized in display cases located throughout East High.