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Remembering Our Dear Friend Cal LaRoche

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Cultivating
the Next Generation of
African American Leaders

THE RON BROWN SCHOLAR PROGRAM IS DEDICATED TO SUPPORTING AND NURTURING FUTURE LEADERS THROUGH EDUCATION, MENTORSHIP, AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT.

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OUR
PROGRAMS

Since 1996, we have been providing scholarships, leadership development, and guidance to young African Americans to help them achieve their highest potential. Our programs are designed for African American high school students, college students, and alumni seeking opportunities for growth and success.

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SCHOLARSHIP

The Ron Brown Scholar Program provides $40,000 scholarships to African American high school seniors who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to community service.

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LEADERS
NETWORK

Our Leaders Network connects Scholars, Captains, and Alumni with career development opportunities, mentorship, and a robust professional network.

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GUIDED PATHWAY
SUPPORT PROGRAM

GPS provides African American high school juniors and seniors with the guidance and resources needed to successfully navigate the college admissions process.

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703

SCHOLARS

99%

GRADUATION RATE

3,255

CAPTAINS

7,022

GPS NAVIGATORS

Celebrating 25 Years

In Memoriam:
Cal LaRoche (1946–2025)

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Cal LaRoche, a brilliant and dedicated advisor and champion of the Ron Brown Scholar Program, who left us on Wednesday, April 9th, 2025.

Born in New York in January 1946, Cal graduated from Central State University in Ohio, where he joined the Eta Gamma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. His career spanned decades of leadership and innovation, beginning at the National Security Agency and continuing through key roles at IBM, SkyTel Communications, and The Orkand Corporation. 

A visionary entrepreneur, Cal later co-founded DC Ventures and Associates.

His commitment to service was unwavering. Cal chaired the Boards of Trustees at Suburban Hospital in Bethesda and Norwood School and served with distinction for 15 years on the Advisory Board of the Ron Brown Scholar Program. His leadership extended to the Beta Mu, Boulé Foundation Board, where he served as Chair, and to Patients For Affordable Drugs, where he was a founding board member and Treasurer.

An avid golfer and advocate for equity in the sport, Cal co-founded the Pro-Duffer/Carter Foundation Scholarship to promote diversity in golf. A long-time member of TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm, he was as passionate about creating opportunity as he was about the game itself.

Cal’s legacy is carried on by his beloved family: his mother, Lucille “Gloria” David; his wife, Esperanza, and their sons, CJ and Ethan; his former wife, Cheryl LaRoche; their daughters, Gina LaRoche, Renee LaRoche-Morris, and Danielle LaRoche; six grandchildren; and his siblings. His wisdom, warmth, and unwavering belief in the potential of young people will remain an enduring part of the Ron Brown Scholar community.

We are forever grateful for Cal’s enduring support, leadership, and love. He leaves behind a legacy of excellence, generosity, and deep humanity. He will be deeply missed.
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