Rochelle M. Lowenfeld's Obituary
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Rochelle M. Lowenfeld, who left us at the age of 98 on January 17, 2025. A trailblazer in education and development, Rochelle’s legacy is defined by her commitment to empowering others and her dedication to her community.
Born in Chicago, Rochelle and her family moved to Los Angeles during the Depression. Rochelle earned her B.S. in Education from UCLA, an M.A. in Student Personnel Administration, and a Professional Diploma in Reading from Columbia University’s Teachers College. She made history as the first woman to serve as Vice President for Development at Hofstra University, a position she proudly held from 1985 until her retirement. Her transformative work earned her recognition, including Long Island’s Outstanding Fund-Raising Executive in 1989, with the National Society of Fund Raising Executives (NSFRE) noting that her efforts had a profound impact on the quality of life on Long Island.
Rochelle’s greatest joy was her family. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Irwin, with whom she shared nearly 40 beautiful years of marriage. Rochelle is survived by her stepchildren, Russell (Wendy) and Marguerite; her grandchildren, Jessica (Andrew), Adam (Allison), Daniel (Lisa), and Lindsay; her great grandchildren and many loving nieces, nephews and friends– all of whom she loved and who will miss her deeply.
Memorial donations may be made in her memory to Hofstra University, c/o Alan Kelly, 102c Hofstra Hall, Hempstead, NY 11549, or online at give.hofstra.edu.
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