September 9, 2025
Launched in 2023 to celebrate MPA’s rich athletic tradition, MPA is proud to announce the 2025 Hall of Fame inductees: David McGaha, longtime coach and mentor; Lauren LaRoche ’99, alum athlete; and Olivia (Lansing) Herrick ’06, alum athlete. Please take a moment to read about Lauren LaRoche ’99!
What was your greatest accomplishment during your time as an athlete at MPA?
My most significant athletic achievements throughout my years at MPA in cross country and track and field include winning the 400-meter dash at the state track & field meet in 1996 as a wide-eyed, eager freshman.
When you look back on your time at MPA, what is one thing you would change or do differently?
Not a single thing. While I excelled in athletics, MPA provided me with many opportunities to be a well-rounded student, pushing me outside my comfort zone and instilling the confidence and belief that I could achieve anything.
In what ways did the school support you during your time at MPA?
MPA focuses on each student and unconditionally supports them during their formative years. The school fosters a culture of safety and opportunity, promoting individualism while demonstrating the importance of collaboration. During my time at MPA, I always felt the teachers and staff only wanted the best for me, encouraging me to voice my opinions and push boundaries. When a student graduates from MPA, it’s these attributes they carry with them that are woven throughout the rest of their lives.
Who at MPA had the greatest influence on you?
Most definitely, Coach Docherty. She was a true force and mentor throughout high school, pushing me to excel beyond my wildest dreams. Coach Docherty provided endless amounts of encouragement and guidance, leading by example on how to be not just a better runner, but an exceptional human. The bits of wisdom she imparted to me, I still retain today.
What is something about you or your time at MPA that few people know?
When I first joined MPA as a fifth grader, I was shy and lost. I had recently transferred from a public school where I was just a number and was often overlooked. Ms. Ed was my science teacher and the first to try to help me find my place in this new school. She urged me to join the cross-country team, something I knew nothing about. I remember reluctantly telling my parents about this idea, and they supported it; however, the requirement was that I had to stick with it for the entire season. This seemed daunting at the time, but I really liked Ms. Ed, so I figured, what’s the worst that could happen? Unbeknownst to me, this decision would set me on the most rewarding, life-long trajectory.
Click here to make a gift in honor of this year’s Hall of Fame inductees and help build a strong future for MPA athletics.
