The Syracuse community and the University of Pennsylvania are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Claire Lee, a bright, compassionate, and accomplished young woman who tragically died by suicide.
Her untimely passing has left her family, friends, and peers devastated, struggling to comprehend the loss of someone whose life was filled with promise, kindness, and remarkable achievements.
Claire was a proud graduate of Fayetteville-Manlius Senior High School (Class of 2023), where she excelled both academically and personally. She was a dedicated student whose commitment to learning and excellence earned her a place on the High Honor Roll throughout her high school career.
She was also an active member of the National Honor Society, Science Honor Society, and National Art Honor Society, demonstrating her wide-ranging talents and intellectual curiosity.
Her outstanding efforts were recognized when she was honored with the Best and Brightest Student Award by the Post Standard Syracuse.com in 2022. That same drive and dedication carried her into the Benjamin Franklin Scholars Program in 2023, a prestigious recognition that reflected her academic passion and potential.
With a deep sense of purpose and a desire to make a difference in healthcare, Claire pursued her studies at the University of Pennsylvania, where she enrolled in a dual degree track in Nursing (BSN) and Nutrition Sciences (BA).
She was part of the Class of 2027 and fully immersed herself in the challenging but rewarding journey of becoming a healthcare professional. Her professors and peers admired her for her diligence, humility, and dedication.
Claire’s passion for healthcare extended beyond the classroom. She worked as a Student Clinical Assistant at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, where she applied her knowledge and compassion in real-world settings.
Her role allowed her to serve patients directly, and she quickly earned respect for her attentiveness, warmth, and professionalism. To further her training, she earned her Basic Life Support (BLS) certification through the American Heart Association, a testament to her commitment to saving lives and serving others.
Her selflessness was evident in the ways she gave back to her community. Claire volunteered at St. Joseph’s Hospital, where she supported staff and patients with grace and empathy. She also spent four summers working at Lodi Summer Camp, where she became a mentor to younger children.
Friends from camp recall her as patient, caring, and always willing to lend a listening ear. Whether guiding children through summer activities or providing a comforting presence in a hospital setting, Claire exemplified compassion and service.
Those who knew Claire speak of her ability to brighten any room she entered. Her friends remember her kindness, her sharp wit, and her ability to bring laughter even in difficult times.
Teachers and mentors admired her discipline and determination, while peers were inspired by her unwavering generosity. She was someone who cared deeply—about her family, her friends, her community, and the future she envisioned in nursing and nutrition.
Although her life was tragically cut short, Claire’s impact continues to resonate. Her story is one of brilliance, dedication, and love for others. Her family and community mourn her passing while holding tightly to the many ways she enriched their lives.
Claire will be remembered not only for her accomplishments but also for her heart—for the way she made others feel valued, seen, and loved. Her light, though gone far too soon, will continue to shine in the memories of those fortunate enough to have known her.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support. You are not alone, and help is always available.