Run / Walk / Move for Ron Brown. Register Today.

APPLY NOW - 2027 Application is now open!

Tickets & Sponsorships Now Available for AJA 2025—Reserve Your Place!

Remembering Our Dear Friend Cal LaRoche

Read His Full Biography

Donate

Ron Brown Scholar Jay Lundy to Lead NAACP Capital: A $200 Million Fund Focused on Communities of Color

We are proud to announce that Ron Brown Scholar alumnus Jay Lundy (RBS 2005) will be the Managing Director of NAACP Capital, a newly launched $200 million “fund of funds” dedicated to supporting venture capital managers and startups that address the needs of communities of color. With his extensive venture capital and impact investing background, Jay will lead this groundbreaking initiative to create generational impact by addressing barriers to capital for Black founders and innovators.

The NAACP Capital initiative, part of the NAACP’s #KeepAdvancing campaign, will provide financial investment, strategic resources, and guidance. By directing funds towards underserved communities, NAACP Capital is set to be a catalyst for change, supporting technological and economic advancements that directly benefit communities of color.

Jay shared his statement: “Through this fund, we have an opportunity to invest in the next generation of managers and founders, bringing technology and innovation into our communities. Our investment strategy focuses on generational impact and tech innovation to drive both meaningful change and strong returns.”

NAACP Capital marks a significant stride in bridging the racial equity gap within the venture capital ecosystem. It reflects the Ron Brown Scholar Program’s ongoing commitment to leadership, equity, and social impact.

We are incredibly proud of Jay’s accomplishments and look forward to witnessing the transformative work he will lead with NAACP Capital.

For more information on NAACP Capital, visit the NAACP website and congratulate Jay Lundy on this incredible achievement!

Full Press Release: https://naacp.org/articles/naacp-launches-innovative-200-million-fund-funds-transform-venture-capital-landscape

Share this post:

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.
GET INVOLVED