Santa Margarita Eagles Soar on Shoulders of Legacy

Stadium lights. Fans in the stands. Teammates, more like family members. On the field as a player or on the sidelines as a coach, Bradley “Brad” Dillahunty’s passion for Santa Margarita Catholic High School football ran deep. His commitment to excellence, love of learning and kind heart shone through in athletics, academics and music, earning the admiration of family and friends alike. So, when Brad tragically died in a car accident in San Diego County in June 2008, his parents, Jim and Suzan Dillahunty, desired to keep his light shining.  

Just months after Brad’s passing, they were connected with The Orange Catholic Foundation (OCF) and established The Bradley J. Dillahunty ‘02 Memorial Scholarship. Many years later, the Dillahunty family and the 40+ scholarship recipients are a meaningful part of OCF’s 25-year history.

At least two students each year, involved in sports or extracurriculars at Santa Margarita, soar into senior year on the shoulders of Brad’s legacy. As part of the tuition scholarship application process, they are invited to learn more about him by visiting brad44.com, a website created specifically to share his story. Jim shared, “When they see Brad’s heart and character, our hope is that they are motivated by it, adopt some of his traits, challenge themselves and have a great time growing up.”

At first, creating something in their 24-year-old son’s name was painful, but over time, it became a source of peace. The scholarship “was a way for us to honor Brad’s memory and stay connected to Santa Margarita and the athletic department. It helped us maintain a connection to what Brad loved,” said Jim.  

The Bradley J. Dillahunty ‘02 Memorial Scholarship was set up through a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF), which is a flexible giving account managed by OCF. Jim and Suzan, along with others who knew Brad and their family, provided the founding contributions that established the DAF, opening the door for Brad’s love to flow like blessings from heaven to earth.  

“To say he was a caring and thoughtful person, one who would do anything for his friends and family seems like a simple statement, but is most definitely true,” Suzan wrote in a letter posted on Brad’s dedication website.

Every now and then, Jim and Suzan have caught a glimpse of their son’s drive and determination in the lives of the recipients and their families. Whether through a surprise Christmas card or a chance meeting at a Santa Margarita High School event, the Dillahuntys are moved to hear how the students they helped have continued to thrive.

In addition to supporting Santa Margarita Catholic High School students, Jim and Suzan make separate donations to Mission Basilica School in San Juan Capistrano, where Brad attended grade school.  

Do you have a loved one, spiritual mentor or friend you would like to honor through a special tribute? For 25 years, The Orange Catholic Foundation has humbly walked with families just like Jim and Suzan Dillahunty. Click here to explore how DAFs offer Catholics a purposeful way to transform passion into purpose and grace. A Catholic philanthropy officer can also provide you with some other thoughtful and strategic ideas. Schedule a time to chat at 714.282.3021 or info@OrangeCatholicFoundation.org.