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Remembering Our Dear Friend Cal LaRoche

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Michael Mekonnen: Crafting Delight at Google

Ron Brown Scholar Michael Mekonnen (RBS 2009) has turned his knack for problem-solving and passion for creativity into a unique role at one of the world’s leading tech companies. Based in Washington, DC, Michael serves as a Senior Engineer on Google’s “Delight Team,” the masterminds behind the whimsical easter eggs and delightful surprises that users encounter across Google searches.

From hidden games to playful animations, Michael’s team focuses on injecting moments of joy into everyday interactions. These seemingly small touches often leave lasting impressions, transforming how users experience technology.

Reflecting on his journey, Michael credits his time as a Ron Brown Scholar as pivotal to his development as a leader and an engineer. The Program’s mentorship and support, a shining example of the impact of such initiatives, allowed him to excel at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he earned his Computer Science and Electrical Engineering degree.

Michael’s role is more than just coding clever surprises—it’s about creating moments of connection. Whether it’s sparking nostalgia with an 8-bit Google Doodle or surprising users with a secret game, the Delight Team’s mission is to make technology more human.

Beyond his work at Google, Michael remains deeply connected to the Ron Brown Scholar community. He often shares his experiences to inspire the next generation of innovators, reminding them that leadership and creativity go hand in hand.

We’re proud to celebrate Michael’s achievements and the joy he brings to millions of Google users worldwide. Thank you, Michael, for exemplifying the Ron Brown Scholar Program’s spirit and reminding us of the power of delight in innovation.

Here are some of Michael’s favorite Easter eggs:

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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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