MADISON, Wis. – Standout student athlete Sarah Shulze, a runner on the University of Wisconsin’s track and cross country teams, has died at the age of 21.
Shulze’s family says she died by suicide.
“We suddenly and tragically lost our dear Sarah on Wednesday, April 13. She was surrounded by her loving family,” the statement read.
“Sarah took her own life. Balancing athletics, academics and the demands of every day life overwhelmed her in a single, desperate moment. Like you, we are shocked and grief stricken while holding on tightly to all that Sarah was.
Above all other things, Sarah was a power for good in the world. Her deep compassion was evident in her devotion to her sisters Abbey and Ella, the love her parents felt from her every single day, and the extra care she took in moments shared with her grandparents and cousins. Her service to her community started at a young age through the National Charity League. Sarah was a member of the Oak Park High School Class of 2019 and served her high school’s student body as a member of the ASB for four years.
Sarah was a deeply committed friend that could be counted on to take on any and every adventure on a moment’s notice. Some of Sarah’s favorite adventures were trips to Europe, Africa, Alaska and other parts of the U.S., all shared with family and friends.
Anyone who knew Sarah knew that her lifelong passions extended beyond family and friends to the track. She began to make her mark as an athlete on her high school track and cross-country teams, competing throughout the country in National and State events. Her devotion and incredible talent for running would culminate in a scholarship opportunity to race for the University of Wisconsin at Madison, an ongoing source of pride for Sarah as she entered her third season with the team.
She was also a member of the Student Athlete Council at UW Madison. During her time in Wisconsin, Sarah loved her internship at the Wisconsin state legislature and volunteered as a poll worker during our last Presidential election. These experiences helped develop her deep love for politics, social causes and women’s rights.
Sarah regarded herself as a champion for all women, as did the many family members, friends, students and athletes who surrounded her.”
