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Remembering Our Dear Friend Cal LaRoche

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Dr. Joel Bervell (Captain, Advisory Board Member) Wins Peabody Award for Groundbreaking Social Media Series on Racial Bias in Medicine

Ron Brown Captain and Advisory Board Member Dr. Joel Bervell has been honored with a 2024 Peabody Award in the Interactive category for his educational social media series, What Does Racial Bias in Medicine Look Like?

Through short-form videos posted on Instagram and TikTok, Dr. Bervell—often called a “medical mythbuster”—shines a light on the persistent racial disparities that shape medical education and patient care. His content is timely and timeless: rooted in rigorous research, delivered with clarity, and committed to exposing the systemic biases that harm communities of color.

Drawing from real-world examples, clinical studies, and his own experiences in medical school, Dr. Bervell has produced hundreds of videos unpacking how racial bias infiltrates pain assessments, diagnostic algorithms, kidney transplant protocols, and more. His work empowers patients and educates providers, creating a more just and informed healthcare system one view at a time.

At a time when disinformation online is rampant and trust in institutions is fragile, Dr. Bervell’s series has become a trusted resource for millions. The Peabody Award recognizes the quality of his storytelling and the life-saving potential of truth shared with courage and compassion.

We extend our warmest congratulations to Dr. Bervell on this historic achievement. His work exemplifies the Ron Brown Scholar Program’s mission: to cultivate leaders who succeed in their fields, drive systemic change, and create a better future for all.

Learn more about Dr. Bervell’s work on Instagram and LinkedIn and watch his animated series, The Doctor Is In, on YouTube

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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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