Share your memories
I first met Don DeRosa in 1995 as student body president in dental school, just as he began his presidency at University of the Pacific. I was struck by his vision and how genuinely he connected with all of us. Years later, as a Regent, I saw how deeply he cared and how transformational he was. I feel grateful to have witnessed his impact. He will be truly missed. My sincere condolences to Karen and his family.
—Nava Fathi
I was a student at Pacific, graduating in 2009. President DeRosa was always walking around campus making an effort to talk to students he crossed paths with. He'd ask our names until he remembered them, but he always managed to remember what we'd talked about the last time we chatted, even if it was only for a couple minutes. He was always genuinely interested in what we had to say and that will always mean so much to me not only as a student but now as a staff member. Rest easy, Don.
—Rose Cureton
My wife, Joretta and I, first met Don when he came to campus to interview. We were alumni representatives on the search committee. We were instantly struck by Don's warmness and kindness. Every time Don would see us after this, he would always recount our meeting that day. Don was a great leader and human being. I appreciate all he did to support the university and especially the alumni.
—Price Burlington
As an alumna, I met President DeRosa when he invited me to serve on the National Commission on the Next Level of Excellence. It was here Don’s passion for reviving the university became so clear. Later, as a Regent, I saw how President’s DeRosa’s support of and belief in our fine university had led the way for vast improvement in all areas of Pacific. My condolences to Mrs. DeRosa and family. May Don rest in peace.
—Susanne Stirling
I was fortunate to shake Dr. DeRosa's hand at my graduation. As first in my family to achieve a bachelor's degree, this was a very special moment for me. He made Pacific a place I will always cherish. As an extremely involved student and alumni who also had the honor to be staff near the end of his presidency, I was fortunate to know him in various capacities. He was a true supporter of students, their pursuit of knowledge and their hunger for success. May peace bring comfort at this time.
—Celexsy Adame
I exchanged emails with Don this past December and told him how grateful I was for his exemplary leadership. His vision for Pacific created an environment in which faculty, staff and administration could pursue progress, quality and possibility. He was thoughtful, decisive and humane. His central role in attracting the historic Powell gift was the culmination of countless lasting contributions—large and small—to the university. Karen and the entire DeRosa family are in my thoughts.
—Cynthia Weick
I was privileged to have been one of the five faculty representatives selected by Pacific’s Academic Council in 1994 to serve on the Presidential Search Committee, which brought Don DeRosa to Pacific to serve as its 23rd president. In his interview process, Don distinguished himself by his exemplary leadership skills and his great warmth. He was also very presidential, and we believed that he would represent Pacific well. We were right, and he was truly a transformative leader.
—Heather Knight
I first met President DeRosa as a new faculty member. He could not have been more approachable, gracious and supportive. Each time I spoke with him even briefly, he struck me as a gentle person with great generosity of spirit. And of course, he had a tremendous love of the school and all those who have crossed our campuses. His vision and impact on our people and university will long be remembered. I wish his family and friends comfort during this time as they recall many cherished memories.
—Elisa Chavez
There is no doubt that Don DeRosa was the greatest president that the university ever had. He was kind to everyone, and he handled each problem with a calm and steady course until it was solved. Karen DeRosa was his equal and made all the Regent spouses feel welcomed at campus events. When Don announced his retirement, Mr. Powell pledged the largest gift to University of the Pacific that has benefited hundreds of students. His legacy will last forever. I am sad he is no longer with us.
—Hayne Moyer
Don was hired at Pacific in 1995 and I was recruited back to my alma mater in 1996. I overlapped with Don for 13 years, leading the efforts to raise funds for Pacific Athletics and then the Pacific Fund. Don was a dedicated Development ally and exceptional fundraiser—always friendly, compassionate, donor-centric and trustworthy. And Don and my father, Art Dugoni, were great friends and exceptional leaders working alongside each other as University President and Dean of the dental school.
—Jim Dugoni
Don interviewed me in 2000 and gave me my first opportunity to be a director of the recreation program—a growing program for which he shared his vision. He was a visionary. He was warm, thoughtful and supported me throughout my tenure at Pacific. Every time I talked to him I learned something. I still miss Pacific today, largely because of his kindness and leadership.
—David Hall
Dr DeRosa always made you feel seen. He took the time to focus on what was in front of him. He was patient and tolerant…especially when sororities insisted on jumping in his pool every Spring semester. I hope he knew how many thousands upon thousands of people he influenced. It was an honor to know him.
—Helen Jarrett
Don and I started at Pacific in the fall of 1995. By my sophomore year, I was sports editor for The Pacifican. Our entire staff was beside itself when Don agreed to come up to the old office in Hand Hall and speak to us on the record. From that day forward, he had earned my admiration. When our paths crossed on campus, he'd greet me by name and was so genuine. Shaking his hand on the big stage on Knoles Lawn was one of the greatest days of my life. Flowers forever for the indomitable Don DeRosa!
—C. Colton
I remember Don DeRosa with deep respect and gratitude. A memorable campus lunch with him and Regent Kathy Lagorio Janssen led to my invitation to join the Board of Regents. His leadership was exceptional—thoughtful, inclusive and visionary. Securing the $126M Powell gift set Pacific on a transformative path. Karen should be proud of the incredible legacy they built together.
—Jose M. Hernandez
I met President DeRosa the year he started at Pacific, at the President's Alumni Homecoming Meet and Greet, hosted by the DeRosas in their backyard and around the pool deck. It was 106 degrees! I began to "melt." So I sat by the pool, took my shoes off and stuck my feet in the water. I guess that was unusual at a formal event. But, Don came over, sat down, took his shoes off, stuck his feet in the water, smiled at me and said, "Smart! You're someone I want to know." That began a fun friendship!
—Allison McDonald
