More than 200 family members, friends, former colleagues, community members and university leaders filled Faye Spanos Concert Hall to share stories, honor achievements and celebrate the life of Donald V. DeRosa, the 23rd president of California's first and oldest university.

DeRosa, who died in April at age 85, revived University of the Pacific from a struggling institution and grew it into a nationally ranked university. During his tenure from 1995 to 2009, he dramatically strengthened academic rankings, financial stability, fundraising, student success, climate and culture across Pacific's three campuses in Stockton, Sacramento and San Francisco.

Speakers at the celebration of life included Pacific President Christopher Callahan, DeRosa's son, Michael DeRosa; Professor Emeritus Gene Pearson; former Vice President for Student Life Elizabeth Griego; former Regent Steve Goulart ’80; Former Vice President for Business and Finance Patrick Cavanaugh and Tully Knoles Endowed Professor of the Humanities Courtney Lehmann.

Former ASUOP President Todd Strange ’99, accompanied by Assistant Professor of Practice Monica Adams ’91, performed a rendition of DeRosa's favorite song, “The Impossible Dream,” and a moving finale, “My Way."