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Remembering Our Dear Friend Cal LaRoche

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Ron Brown Scholar Program Launches Professional Development Partnership with Wilson Sonsini

The Ron Brown Scholar Program (RBSP) is proud to announce a new partnership with the law firm of Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati to help groups historically underrepresented in the practice of intellectual property law. 

For more than 60 years, Wilson Sonsini has represented technology pioneers associated with virtually every milestone innovation, as well as life sciences trailblazers shaping the future of healthcare, making them uniquely positioned to accelerate the careers of high-potential STEM students.  In addition to supporting the RBSP flagship scholarship program, the initiative provides funding for college students in STEM fields to attend an annual conference in New York, NY where they can pursue connections in the industry, network with attorneys, and learn how their pursuit of a STEM education and career may align with a future practice of intellectual property law.

This partnership underscores Wilson Sonsini’s ongoing commitment to providing access to pathways into the practice of law for all, particularly those from diverse backgrounds and communities historically underrepresented in the STEM and legal fields.

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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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