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
