Ron Brown Scholar Program Celebrates Amanda Alexander’s Fellowship at the University of Michigan

The University of Michigan’s Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy’s Center for Racial Justice has announced the selection of Amanda Alexander (RBS 2000) as one of its Visiting Fellows for the academic year 2024-25. This prestigious appointment underscores her remarkable contributions to racial justice and her ongoing commitment to influencing public policy.

The Visiting Fellows Program is a cornerstone initiative at the Center for Racial Justice. It is designed to empower a diverse group of leaders who are at the forefront of racial justice work—scholars, activists, artists, and advocates—by providing them with essential support to amplify their impact on policy and social reform. The program focuses on fostering transformative change and enhancing fellows’ ability to advocate effectively within the policy arena.

Amanda Alexander, JD, PhD, is a celebrated racial justice lawyer, historian, and organizer. She founded the Detroit Justice Center, a nonprofit law firm working to transform America’s justice system through innovative, solution-focused approaches. At the Detroit Justice Center, Alexander has been pivotal in developing programs that promote economic justice, community empowerment, and equitable urban development.

Alexander plans to engage deeply with the university community during her fellowship and continue her advocacy work. She expressed enthusiasm about her return to the University of Michigan, particularly for the opportunity to collaborate with student organizers and to contribute to the academic and community discourse around racial justice.

Amanda Alexander’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of activists and scholars is a beacon of hope. It aligns perfectly with the Ron Brown Scholar Program’s mission of advancing the lives of highly gifted young African Americans who possess a strong commitment to public service and community transformation.

The announcement of this fellowship is a testament to the significant impact Ron Brown Scholars continue to make across various sectors. Amanda Alexander’s journey from a promising young scholar to a transformative leader in the realm of racial justice is a source of pride and inspiration. It exemplifies the profound influence and far-reaching potential of our alumni.

We invite our community to join us in supporting and celebrating the impactful work of our distinguished scholars like Amanda Alexander, who are making substantial contributions to society and advancing the cause of racial justice.

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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.