In 1991, in an effort to recognize East High graduates who excelled in their chosen fields, teachers Dennis Shearer and Jim Farley—and Charles Rodriquez, then principal of East High School—formulated a plan to achieve this dream.

Mr. Shearer and Mr. Farley, both outstanding woodworking professionals, agreed to build showcases to highlight outstanding graduates. As each showcase was built, the valedictorian and salutatorian for each year were listed on engraved plaques. A special showcase was then built to honor the valedictorian, salutatorian, and top ten seniors for the current school year. In addition, a showcase was built to honor the past principals of East High School. This project was completed in 1996.

As time went on with this plan, a dream was conceived to honor outstanding graduates for their contributions to the community, state, nation, and world. It was decided that non-graduates who contributed outstanding amounts of service to East should also be recognized. Guidelines for selection to the Golden Eagle Award (Hall of Fame) took two years to complete. During this time, the selection of the nominating committee was completed. The first Hall of Fame committee included Bernadette Padula, Jack Pecoraro, Jim Potestio, Dennis Shearer, and Carol Wheeler.

The first induction ceremony for the Golden Eagle Hall of Fame took place on April 25, 1997.