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Remembering Our Dear Friend Cal LaRoche

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Honoring the Legacy of Dr. Robert B. Binswanger

In our Ron Brown Scholar family, we cherish the memory of those who have profoundly impacted our community. Today, we pay tribute to a treasured friend, mentor, and advocate, Dr. Robert B. Binswanger. A man of unwavering commitment to service and education, Dr. Binswanger left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

This tribute video captures the essence of his impact. Featuring heartfelt testimonials and memories shared by Scholars and Friends who knew him personally, the video serves as a poignant reminder of his profound influence on our community.

The Robert Binswanger Communitarian Award

Dr. Binswanger’s dedication to our Scholars spanned nearly two decades, during which he served on our National Selection Committee. His wisdom, kindness, and genuine interest in the lives of our Scholars made him a beloved figure within our community. Whether mentoring Scholars at Dartmouth, where he taught for many years, or championing their aspirations on the selection committee, Dr. Binswanger epitomized the values of compassion, excellence, and selflessness.

To honor Dr. Binswanger’s extraordinary legacy, we’ve created The Robert Binswanger Communitarian Award, to be presented to a Ron Brown Scholar at our annual American Journey Awards events.

As we reflect on Dr. Binswanger’s life and legacy, let us carry forward his spirit of service and dedication to others. Join us in honoring the memory of a remarkable individual who touched the lives of so many.

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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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