School of Health Sciences recognizes life, work of late professor during Commencement ceremony

In the midst of celebrating its undergraduate Class of 2025 during Liberty University’s Commencement, the School of Health Sciences took a few moments during its ceremony on Friday morning to honor and remember the life and work of the late Dr. David Rockabrand, an associate professor of biology who passed away suddenly on May 2.

Rockabrand joined Liberty in 2020, bringing expertise in microbiology, immunology, and global health after a distinguished career serving in the United State Navy. During his time in the military, Rockabrand focused on medical microbiology and global health. He conducted work on disease surveillance, enteric vaccines, and clinical and anatomic pathology in the United States, West Africa, and the Middle East.

At Liberty, he taught courses in immunology, microbiology, and biomedical ethics.

During the ceremony, Provost and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Scott Hicks spoke to Rockabrand’s dedication to the sciences and the Lord, evidenced by his work and presence that “deeply impacted” the Liberty community. Rockabrand’s family was present for the ceremony.

“(At Liberty), he brought his passion for science and faith into the classroom, teaching courses ranging from microbiology to medical ethics and inspiring students with his wisdom and humility,” Hicks said. “He was also a man of deep conviction, committed to integrating God’s Word into every aspect of learning. His legacy lives on in the lives of those he touched, the knowledge he shared, and the faith he lived out daily. We are grateful for his life and his lasting impact made on our campus and beyond. He is truly a Champion for Christ.”

He was also recognized during the Main Ceremony on Friday night.

Rockabrand earned both an MBA and Master of Divinity in Chaplaincy from Liberty, as well as a Ph.D. in microbiology from University of Nebraska – Lincoln and a bachelor’s in biology from Southeast Missouri State University.