Kathryn Lee, longtime University writer and educator

Kathryn Edwards Lee G’97 was a longtime member of the Syracuse University community, serving under three administrations beginning with Chancellor Melvin A. Eggers. She was a gifted writer and spent many years as speechwriter and assistant to Chancellor Kenneth A. Shaw.

Lee passed away on June 20 in Syracuse at the age of 65.

In her early career, she was the host for two classical music radio stations in Syracuse, including WCNY-FM in the 1970s and 1980s. She later went on to serve as a public relations officer for Benjamin Rush Center, the Syracuse Opera and Crouse Hospital. 

Most recently, Lee was an instructor of public relations in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. She also served the Newhouse School as a communications professional and writer, and longtime contributor to the Newhouse Network alumni publication.

“Kathryn was a gifted teacher and mentor to students. She taught writing to public relations students for a number of years and spent countless hours grading, coaching and encouraging students in our program,” says Brenda Wrigley, associate professor and chair of the Newhouse School’s Public Relations Department. “She was witty, smart and fun. Her untimely passing has affected all of us very deeply.”

Over the course of her career, Lee edited two books and co-wrote several articles in the area of higher education. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Stetson University, and a master’s degree in higher education administration from SU’s School of Education.

She is survived by her husband, Jeffrey Stonecash, professor of political science in the Maxwell School and College of Arts and Sciences; her son, Joshua Lee; and her daughter, Hannah Lee.

Donations in Lee’s memory may be made to the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition: http://www.ovarian.org/.