David D. Doyle, Jr. Lending Library

The David D. Doyle, Jr. Lending Library in the Scholars Den was launched in May 2026 by the Division of Student Academic Engagement and Success to honor the legacy and championship of Dr. Doyle and his passion for education, reading, and community. 

The David D. Doyle, Jr. Lending Library, housed in Scholars Den, is open to students, faculty, and staff for borrowing, sharing, and donating books across multiple genres to foster conversation and community. The Library is distinguished by a plaque and bookplates noting donated books.

If you are interested in donating a book, please visit an Honors and Scholars Staff member in that space or email AcademicSuccess@smu.edu.

The Namesake: Dr. David D. Doyle, Jr.

Dr. David D. Doyle, Jr. was raised in northern New Hampshire and graduated from Plymouth State College with a degree in History. He earned a Master's Degree in American History from New York University. Working with historians Martin Duberman, David Nasaw, and Randolph Trumbach, Dr. Doyle completed the Ph.D. in American History from the City University of New York.

Dr. Doyle joined SMU in the early 2000s as the Director of the University Honors Program, and oversaw its growth and success in shaping academically gifted Mustangs. During his decades as Dean, Director, and Professor, Dr. Doyle has received two of the highest honors at SMU: the Rotunda Outstanding Faculty Award ('05-'06) and the "M" Award ('06-'07). 

Dr. Doyle retired as Dean of Honors and Scholars in 2026 and continues to engage with SMU as a Teaching Professor for the University Honors Program.