Mariam Keita (RBS 2020) Named 2024 Rangel Fellow

The Ron Brown Scholar Program proudly announces that Mariam Keita, RBS Class of 2020, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Rangel Fellowship. This significant achievement underscores Mariam’s dedication to international service and her commitment to making a positive impact on a global scale.

The Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Program, administered by Howard University, is a U.S. Department of State initiative designed to attract and prepare young individuals for careers in international service. Named in honor of Congressman Rangel, the program highlights the diversity and global leadership that exemplify America’s strength. Managed by the Ralph J. Bunche International Affairs Center at Howard University and funded by the U.S. Department of State, the Rangel Program offers unparalleled opportunities for aspiring Foreign Service Officers.

As a Rangel Fellow, Mariam will receive a graduate fellowship to finance a two-year graduate program, participate in two summer internships, and benefit from mentoring by a Foreign Service Officer, alongside other professional development activities. This fellowship supports outstanding seniors and college graduates who aspire to join the Foreign Service and contribute to U.S. global values and interests.

Mariam joins a distinguished group of Rangel Fellows and Scholars who are representing the United States in 60 countries worldwide. These individuals are promoting human rights, assisting American citizens overseas, enhancing prosperity and development, and fostering deeper ties between the United States and other nations.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mariam Keita on this remarkable achievement and look forward to witnessing her continued contributions to international affairs.

For more information about the Rangel Fellowship and the Ron Brown Scholar Program, please visit [website link].

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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.