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Remembering Our Dear Friend Cal LaRoche

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Highlight Video from Ahmed Muhammad Kits Cubed STEM Fair

The recent Kits Cubed STEM Fair in Oakland, California, was a vibrant celebration of science, brought to life by the vision of its founder, Ahmed Muhammad (RBS 2021). A Ron Brown Scholar, Ahmed’s desire to spark a love for science in his niece and nephew led to the birth of Kits Cubed. This non-profit organization, now a testament to the power of youth leadership in STEM education, has evolved into a movement that inspires hundreds of young minds across the Bay Area.

This engaging highlight video showcases the fair as not just an event but a celebration of young potential and scientific discovery. The video captures the essence of the fair, filled with eager young participants engaged in a variety of hands-on activities that both educate and entertain. Every smile and moment of wonder clearly shows that Kits Cubed is fulfilling its mission: to make science fun, affordable, and accessible.

Visit the Kits Cubed website to see how they are transforming the STEM education landscape.

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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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