Welcoming Michael Winger to the Board of Trustees

The Ron Brown Scholar Program is proud to announce the appointment of Michael Winger, a highly respected figure in the world of professional basketball, as the newest member of its Board of Trustees.

Michael Winger joins us with an illustrious career in sports management, currently serving as the President of Monumental Basketball. In his role, Winger oversees the operations for notable teams such as the Washington Wizards, Mystics, and Capital City Go-Go.

“We are thrilled to welcome Michael formally to our board as we have benefitted from his enthusiastic engagement with the Program since 2007,” said Michael Mallory, CEO of the Ron Brown Scholar Program. “His extensive leadership roles, dedication to nurturing talent, and commitment to excellence align perfectly with the values of the Ron Brown Scholar Program.”

Before his tenure at Monumental Basketball, Winger made significant strides as the general manager of the Los Angeles Clippers. During his six seasons with the team, he acquired star players and conceptualized a state-of-the-art performance and training center scheduled to open in 2024.

Winger’s strategic planning and operational expertise contributed to the Clippers’ ascension in the NBA ranks, culminating in a Western Conference Finals appearance in 2021. His previous experience with the Oklahoma City Thunder and Cleveland Cavaliers, where he also reached the NBA Finals, underscores his ability to foster successful teams and organizations.

A native of the Cleveland area, Winger’s academic credentials are equally impressive. He is an alumnus of Miami University (OH) and holds a law degree, having attended The University of Toledo College of Law and the University of Maryland School of Law. Additionally, he has honed his legal expertise working with renowned sports agent and attorney Ron Shapiro.

The Ron Brown Scholar Program looks forward to the perspectives and innovative strategies Michael Winger will bring to the board, furthering our goal of fostering the next generation of transformational leaders.

Please click here for more information on the Ron Brown Scholar Program and our board members.

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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.