The 1958 civil engineering graduate has thrived as an entrepreneur in California, building a successful custom-home business and J. Lohr Vineyards and Wines. He has remained connected to his home state and alma mater, joining the SDSU Foundation board in 1988 and leading both of the university’s comprehensive campaigns. He was among the first funders of the landmark Jackrabbit Guarantee scholarship program and has since created the Lohr Scholars – a renewable $5,000 scholarship for high-achieving South Dakota students majoring in engineering. He was a founder of the university’s architecture program.

The College of Engineering was renamed the Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering in 2013. The Lohr Building also serves as home to the SDSU Foundation and Alumni Association.

Lohr has been the complete team player for SDSU and the Foundation – a transformational donor, a relentless fundraiser, and an always-present volunteer.

He is the first living donor to have a lifetime giving society named in his honor. The Jerome J. Lohr Society recognizes donors with lifetime gifts and commitments through the SDSU Foundation of at least $20 million.