The Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans recently honored William J. Doré with the 2011 Horatio Alger Norman Vincent Peale Award in Washington D.C.

Doré, a McNeese State University graduate, received the Norman Vincent Peale Award for his years of ongoing work with the association and his service as a role model. The award is annually conferred on an association member who has made exceptional humanitarian contributions to society, who has been an active participant in the association, and who continues to exhibit courage, tenacity and integrity in the face of great challenges.

According to Doré, the Horatio Alger Award is one of the greatest honors he has ever received. "To be recognized in this way and to be associated with the individuals who preceded me is humbling…It also bring with it a commitment that I will never forget the road from which I have come, and brings with it an obligation to help young people burdened by adversities similar to mine.”

Doré received both his bachelor and master's degrees in education from McNeese. While at McNeese he was honored as "Most Outstanding Male Student Teacher” of his class and lettered in track and football.

Doré has created and enriched a number of facilities and programs at McNeese including the William J. Doré School of Graduate Studies, the Golden Saddle Club and Rodeo Hall of Fame, and the Kay Doré Counseling Clinic. In 1998 he was inducted into the McNeese State University Hall of Honor in recognition of his support of the University's athletic program.

Doré founded Global Industries, Ltd. In 1973 and retired as Chief Executive Officer in 2006.