This Monday, November 10, the funeral for Dr. Josep Antoni Rom, rector of Ramon Llull University (URL), was held at the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar in Barcelona. The ceremony, presided over by the auxiliary bishop of Barcelona, Mons. David Abadias, brought together family, friends, and numerous figures from the political and academic worlds.

Among the attendees were the president of the Parliament of Catalonia, Josep Rull; the Minister of Universities, Núria Montserrat; the former mayor of Barcelona, Xavier Trias; and other institutional representatives. Representing Blanquerna were the president of the Foundation, Dr. Josep Maria Carbonell, and the general director, Jordi Riera, along with a wide representation from the management teams, faculty, and administrative and service staff of both Blanquerna and Ramon Llull University.

Josep was the driving force behind the founding of our School of Communication and International Relations, a leading academic and personal figure, and someone deeply cherished by students, faculty, and administrative and support staff alike.

Over more than thirty years of dedicated service, he championed initiatives that continue to shape our identity today. Through his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to Christian humanism, excellence, and aesthetics grounded in ethics, he left an indelible mark on our institution's history. His approach – approachable, rigorous, and generous – bequeaths a legacy we will continue to uphold.

The expressions of condolences and affection we have received in recent days have been innumerable. We share three obituaries that offer different perspectives and testimonies on Josep Antoni Rom's legacy:

• Obituary by Lluís Recoder and Dr. Josep Maria Carbonell in La Vanguardia.
• Obituary by Dr. Jordi Riera in El Periódico.
• Obituary by Dr. Míriam Díez in Catalunya Cristiana.
  

As a compilation of his legacy, we also want to share his Pinterest account, where he showcased his creations and other references he used in his classes.

We share in the grief of all who knew and loved him. We hold him in our prayers and stand by his family during this time of profound sorrow.

Thank you, Josep, for all you did for Blanquerna, for what you embody, and for the enduring legacy you leave to Blanquerna and Ramon Llull University. For your faith in people, your enthusiasm, and your belief that universities can transform lives and societies.

Rest in peace.