Josep Antoni Rom, who had led Universitat Ramon Llull (URL) since 2022, has passed away in Barcelona at the age of 61. The cause of death was a heart attack, which occurred on Saturday night. His sudden passing came as a shock to Catalonia’s academic community.
Rom was not only the rector but also one of the key architects of the university’s modern research strategy. Since 2020, he served as Vice-Rector for Research and Innovation, where he actively promoted new research directions and supported the growth of young academics. Thanks to his efforts, the university strengthened its position in scientific research and in partnership with the business sector.
Josep Antoni Rom was born in Barcelona in 1963. He studied modern history at the University of Barcelona and later earned a PhD in advertising and public relations at URL. Since 1994, he had been affiliated with the Blanquerna-URL Faculty of Communication, where he became one of the founding members of the faculty of communication and international relations. For nearly two decades, Rom served as Deputy Dean for Technology and Infrastructure, and later led the educational program in advertising, public relations, and marketing.
His academic work covered a wide range of topics—from creativity and design to marketing strategies. Rom published several books and articles, participated in academic committees, and led a research group specializing in strategy and creativity in advertising. Colleagues note that he always sought to introduce innovative approaches to education and supported interdisciplinary projects.
A loss for the university and the region
The death of Josep Antoni Rom has triggered a wave of condolences not only among university staff and students, but also from government officials. Catalan President Salvador Illa publicly expressed his regret at the loss, highlighting Rom’s significant contribution to the development of education and innovation in the region. The university extended its support to Rom’s family and emphasized that his ideas and methods will remain part of future generations of students and professors.
For many colleagues and students, Rom was not only a leader, but also a mentor who inspired new achievements. His professionalism, openness to dialogue, and ability to see new perspectives made him one of the key figures in Barcelona’s academic life over the past decades.
Legacy and remembrance
The passing of Josep Antoni Roma is not only a personal tragedy for his loved ones, but also a significant loss for the entire educational community of Catalonia. His academic work, teaching, and leadership will continue to shape the development of the university and the region’s higher education system. In the coming days, the university will hold memorial events where colleagues, students, and friends can pay tribute to this distinguished scholar and educator.
