David Dorman, age 81, passed away November 2, 2022 in NYU Langone Mineola Hospital. David is survived by his wife Betsy, son Paul and daughter Nancy Kravitiz (Chris), grandchildren Ross, Randi, and Carly, brother Arthur and sister Barbara Meridinger and many nieces and nephews.
Born in Brooklyn NY, the oldest child of Wallace and Clara Dorman (Flieger) he was a devoted Brooklyn Dodgers fan from an early age, attending games at Ebbets Field with his dad and childhood friends. His love of sports, especially college sports and professional baseball, continued throughout his lifetime.
He attended Temple University and Queens College, graduating with a BA in history, and MA in history/secondary education. He received his doctorate in history and social studies education from NYU in 1976. Post doctoral studies continued at Princeton University where he was chosen as a Woodrow Wilson fellow in world history, and the University of Vermont as an NEA grant recipient to study Chinese culture and philosophy.
David’s entire professional career of 50 years was at Manhasset High School where he taught social studies. For 39 of those years, he was the varsity coach for both the boys and the girls tennis teams.
His love of the classroom and teaching never waned over the years. Affectionately known as “Dr. Dorman” as well as “Doc” to his students and athletes, he rigorously challenged them to put forth their best efforts in every area of study. His 7 am Friday morning AP World History writing class was legendary throughout the school and community. David affectionately referred to his AP students as ”WHAPPERS. “
Chosen as a “Master Teacher in World History” by the Woodrow Wilson Foundation, David spent many summers traveling as a team member, presenting world history summer institutes and workshops throughout the nation. He was a faculty consultant, reader, and table leader for the College Board AP European and World History exams.
David loved traveling to the places he taught about throughout the years. He truly believed money was best spent on education and travel, learning the cultures and history of people well beyond the United States. David and Betsy traveled extensively throughout their marriage.
He loved being with his children and grandchildren whether traveling or on a local visit. He considered his friends almost as family. He was a great conversationalist, and loved the “telling of the tale” to friends.
In retirement, David presented a monthly “Current Events in Perspective” program at the Congregational Church of Manhasset, a program enjoyed by many, including former students. He was a voracious reader of history, philosophy and mythology while listening to classical, jazz, opera, early country music and some rock and roll.
A memorial service was held on Friday, November 11, 2022 at the Congregational Church of Manhasset, 1845 Northern Blvd. Manhasset, NY 11030.
For those wishing to honor David, contributions may be made to the Manhasset Public Schools, to create a scholarship program in his name and sent to 200 Memorial Place, Manhasset NY 11030, Attn. Dr. Schlanger with Dr. David Dorman Scholarship Program in the memo line.
Contributions can also be given to the Memorial Fund of The Congregational Church of Manhasset, 1845 Northern Blvd., Manhasset NY 11030 with David Dorman in the memo line. Lastly contributions can be made to a charity of personal choice.
