On Saturday night, the Buffalo Irish Center became a heartfelt gathering place as family, friends, and community members joined together to celebrate the life of Sydney Lohr and raise funds for a memorial scholarship in her honor. The Sydney Lohr Memorial Fund aims to establish a scholarship at St. Lawrence University, where Sydney, a Buffalo native, was a rising senior before her tragic passing.
Sydney Lohr's life was cut short when she was struck and killed by a car in the Elmwood Village neighborhood in July of 2023. Her classmates, co-workers, and the community remember her as a vibrant individual. Sydney was a graduate of Nichols School and was pursuing dual majors in psychology and government at St. Lawrence University. She actively contributed to campus life as a member of the executive board of the Chi-Omega sorority.
The fundraiser was a collaborative effort between the memorial fund committee and community partner including Cole's on Elmwood Avenue where Sydney had been employed. The event featured various fundraising activities such as the sale of memorial fund merchandise, a silent auction filled with generous basket donations and bracelets handmade by Sydney's cousins.
Sydney's family expressed their overwhelming gratitude for the outpouring of support shown at the event. They were deeply moved by the love and generosity demonstrated by the community. "When we were organizing this event, we anticipated receiving donations, but the level of support and generosity we have witnessed tonight is truly beyond belief. The city of good neighbors, Buffalo, has come together to honor our daughter, and we feel incredibly blessed," shared Sydney's family.
Sydney's mother fondly remembered her daughter's remarkable qualities, stating, "She was amazing, smart, funny, adventurous, beautiful, and she lit up a room." The establishment of the memorial scholarship in Sydney's name is a testament to her love for learning and will ensure that her legacy lives on.
All proceeds from the fundraiser will be dedicated to the scholarship fund, which will support deserving students at St. Lawrence University. The family believes that investing in education is a meaningful way to honor Sydney's memory and her passion for knowledge.
For those who were unable to attend the event but wish to contribute to the Sydney Lohr Memorial Fund, a donation link is available at https://sydneylohrmemorialfund.com/. Every contribution, regardless of size, will make a difference in supporting future students and preserving Sydney's legacy.
Information from independent reporting and WGRZ.
After Being Fatally Hit While Crossing the Road, Community Honors Sydney Lohr's Life and Fund Memorial Scholarship