Alumnus of the Year 2024
Dr. Glenn delaRoca
Class of 1989
Will you be the yearbook editor? In his Editor’s Message in the 1988-89 Trillium, Glenn shared that he had vowed not to take an officer role - especially that of Yearbook Editor for the 2nd year in a row. In a time where ‘cut and paste’ layout and planning for yearbook was executed in a literal sense, Glenn made a lasting impact showing organizational and creative skill. His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to capturing the essence of the school experience certainly left an indelible mark - and a hardcopy of another volume to add to our yearbook archive - memories forever encapsulated for generations to come.
Following graduation as the Valedictorian of the Class of 1989, Glenn embarked on his post-secondary academic journey at Atlantic Union College. Following his sophomore year, he transferred to Andrews University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology in 1993. He continued his studies at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry and graduated with a Doctor of Dental Surgery in 2003.
Glenn has been in practice for the last 21 years; 16 years in private practice with DelaRoca Dentistry in Hemet, California. Beyond education, his focus is to also bring his patients the most advanced dental care possible. He believes in giving back to the community and actively shares his knowledge about health and dentistry. Currently, Glenn serves as the team dentist for Mt. San Jacinto College Athletics, San Jacinto, CA and conducts annual screening and education at Hemet High School.
For anyone who attended Crawford in the mid-late 80’s, a core memory is hearing Glenn sing at school and church - most especially his vocal duets with classmate, Diane Seaton. Glenn loves the Lord and continues to use his singing voice for Him. He is actively involved in church ministry and is an ordained elder and worship leader.
Glenn is married to a former Crawford student and high school sweetheart, Ann Lee, who currently serves as a teacher at Loma Linda Academy. Together they have three children - Andrew, 19 and has just completed his freshman year at Andrews University; and twins Abigail and Ava, 17.
Outside of his dental practice, Glenn enjoys time with his family in the great outdoors - hiking and exploring National Parks. He also maintains an active lifestyle running marathons, cycling, golf, hockey and various racquet sports. He is a self-professed 6-year pickleball amateur.
Speaking of pickleball, in September 2020, when the desire to bring the fastest growing sport in North America to Crawford came about, our Development Director met with Dr. Ernie Medina, USA Pickleball Board member and Ambassador. Dr. Medina documented the Zoom meeting and shared a Facebook post which garnered attention by several Crawford alumni - including Glenn. Excited to see pickleball become a part of the High School PE curriculum, Glenn made it possible for the PE Dept. to purchase the equipment necessary to launch the sport here at his alma mater.
An avid golfer and a former student of Mr. Vernon Langdon, Glenn partners with the Vernon Langdon Golf Classic on the green and through his sponsorship to further this amazing cause.
We are so grateful for Glenn’s desire to remain close to the school that he credits for giving him a firm foundation to grow into the person God intended him to be, for his unwavering commitment to community service and leadership, and desire to advance Adventist Education at Crawford Adventist Academy. Today, his contributions continue to inspire, embodying the spirit and values of our dear Crawford. In recognition of his ongoing commitment to excellence, dedication, love and support of Crawford Adventist Academy, we present to you the 2024 Alumni of the Year, Dr. Glenn C. delaRoca, Honoured Class of 1989.
