This semester, we’ve begun a series exploring the history of our college community with an eye toward our future. This week, we’ll be hearing from Jared Herr, a Phi Beta Kappa alumnus from the class of 2004 who graduated with a BS in Biology with Honors and a BS in Biochemistry.
Q: What is your Roanoke story?
A: I didn’t find Roanoke College the traditional way. Growing up just outside of Syracuse, New York, I was ready to leave the snow behind and try something different. While looking at schools, two former colleagues who had attended Roanoke suggested I check it out—and I’m so glad they did. From the moment I set foot on campus, I knew this was where I belonged. It immediately felt like home.
What really drew me in was the strong sense of community. Roanoke had everything I was looking for: a welcoming campus, a close-knit environment, and professors who genuinely care about student success. That atmosphere shaped not just my college experience, but also who I am today.
I lived in Bartlett Hall all four years—first as a freshman, then as a Resident Advisor for three years after that. Being part of residence life gave me the chance to help build the same kind of supportive, connected community that had made me feel so welcome. It was one of the most rewarding parts of my college journey.
Outside of Res Life, I got involved in scientific research, joined Pi Kappa Alpha, and found meaningful opportunities to lead and give back. The friendships I made—both with students and faculty—have lasted well beyond graduation.
Q: What is your fondest college memory?
A: One of the most impactful relationships I formed at Roanoke was with Dr. Darwin Jorgensen, a beloved professor of biology (now retired). Our friendship has been a foundational part of my life. Dr. Jorgensen has always been a steady source of support and guidance, helping me grow both personally and professionally. We remain close to this day, and in a full-circle moment that speaks to the depth of our connection, my wife Erika and I were honored to have him officiate our wedding
Q: Where did you go post-graduation, and where are you now?
A: After graduating from Roanoke, I pursued my medical education at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, where I graduated with honors. From there, I completed my Internal Medicine residency at the University of California, San Francisco, followed by fellowships in Cardiovascular Diseases and Advanced Heart Failure & Transplant Cardiology at the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute in Los Angeles.
Today, I serve as an Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiologist at Sutter Health – California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco. I’m also the Program Director for our Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology Fellowship. In addition to direct patient care for individuals facing end-stage heart disease, I’m actively involved in clinical research and medical education.
Q: How has Roanoke prepared you for life after college, and what is the value of education in your life today?
A: Looking back, I credit Roanoke with giving me far more than a solid foundation in the sciences. It taught me critical thinking, perseverance, and the value of community—lessons that have carried me through every stage of my career. The College’s small size allowed me to form deep, meaningful relationships with professors like Dr. Jorgensen and lifelong friendships with peers who continue to be a part of my life today.
Q: What would your advice to current Roanoke students be?
A: Roanoke is a special place. If you’re reading this as a current student, my advice is simple: take every opportunity to fully experience it. Join clubs, participate in student organizations, have meaningful conversations with your professors, and invest in your community. This is a unique time in your life—one where you’ll grow, change, and discover who you truly are. Roanoke is the perfect place to help you do exactly that.
Maggie Raker
Culture, Wellness & Lifestyle Editor
