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Remembering Our Dear Friend Cal LaRoche

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Scholar Alum Sarah Labrie’s Memoir, No One Gets to Fall Apart, Receives High Praise

Ron Brown Scholar alum Sarah Labrie (RBS 2003) recently released her memoir, No One Gets to Fall Apart, published by HarperCollins. The book delves into the year following her mother’s diagnosis with schizophrenia, exploring the history of mental illness in her family and offering a poignant, unflinching look at resilience, family, and identity.

The memoir has already garnered critical acclaim, with the Los Angeles Times and New York Times naming it an Editors’ Pick and one of October’s most anticipated books. The New York Times review highlights Labrie’s ability to weave personal narratives with more considerable societal insights, making this a must-read for those interested in the intersections of mental health, family dynamics, and self-discovery.

Sarah’s storytelling prowess shines through in her reflections on a profoundly transformative time in her life. With vulnerability and grace, she invites readers to journey with her through pain, love, and healing, shedding light on the complexities of mental health and its ripple effects across generations.

The memoir is available through major retailers for those who’ve yet to pick up No One Gets to Fall Apart. Reviews on platforms like Amazon and Goodreads can help amplify its reach during this competitive season, ensuring its powerful message reaches more readers.

Congratulations to Sarah on this remarkable accomplishment! The Ron Brown Scholar community celebrates her courage, artistry, and dedication to raising awareness about mental health.

Where to Buy: Available now at HarperCollins and other major booksellers.

Support Sarah: Leave a review on Amazon or Goodreads to help this important story gain visibility.

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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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