Patricia Crea LaRocco ’71, M.D., spent the majority of her career as a hospital physician, retiring in 2008. She then worked part-time as a pathology technician before fully retiring in 2014. She is active in several community theater groups, having received numerous recognitions and awards for costuming. Her involvement with Rotary International and her local Rotary club has included several administrative positions for both her local club and district. Her interest in Rotary International service has sent her on multiple medical service trips to India, China, Vietnam, Guatemala, Bangladesh and Honduras. She traveled to Vietnam with Gift of Life International and to China, Guatemala and Bangladesh with Alliance for Smiles, both partners of Rotary.

No matter how far she travels from Immaculata, LaRocco cherishes the time spent on campus and with her beloved classmates. Since graduating with a degree in home economics, LaRocco frequently attends Carol Night, Reunion Weekend, the Awards Gala and other alumni and campus events. She served four terms on the Alumni Board of Governors and since 2021, she has been a class agent. Over the years, LaRocco also volunteered as a committee member of the Amethyst Ball and as the alumna chair for the 2019 Awards Gala.

Women accepting award
President Lettiere greets Patricia LaRocco at her 50th reunion.

In addition to her active participation in campus events and organizations, LaRocco supports the University financially. She is a member of several giving societies, including the Maxis and Loyola societies and the Centennial Circle. As the driving force behind the renovations to the food and nutrition classrooms, she coordinated the donation drive for that campaign to honor a 1971 classmate and helped raise funds for the 100th Anniversary Society during the University’s centennial.

Each year, LaRocco donates and encourages her classmates to do likewise, especially during donation drives such as Charter Day of Giving and the Lanterns of Love appeal at Christmas.

In 2011, LaRocco was honored with the Amethyst Award.

The Alumni Medal honors alumni and is presented in recognition of outstanding volunteer service and support to Immaculata University.