Lya Pfeifer

(1943 – 2026)

The German Emigration Center mourns the loss of Lya Pfeifer, who was closely connected to the institution for many years through her extraordinary dedication and her remarkable ability to bring people and institutions together.

Lya Ilse Pfeifer was born in 1943 in New York as the daughter of German immigrants. The history of her family profoundly shaped her lifelong commitment to fostering cultural exchange between Germany and the United States.
As President of the Max Kade Foundation, Lya Pfeifer supported the German Emigration Center with extraordinary dedication and generosity. It is largely thanks to her personal commitment that the foundation made a substantial contribution toward the restoration of the historic courtroom of the former former Marine Board of Inquiry .

Since then, the room has borne the name “Max Kade Hall” and, since 2013, has housed the extensive library of the German Emigration Center, comprising more than 9,000 volumes on the history of migration.

Lya Pfeifer was awarded the Knights’ Cross of the Order of Merit from the Federal Republic of Germany.

With her warmth, her sense of humor, and her profound humanity, she touched the lives of many people. We remain deeply grateful for her longstanding connection to our institution, for her generous support, and for the many memorable encounters shared with her.

Our heartfelt condolences go to her family and all those close to her.

Dr. Simone Blaschka on behalf of all employees
in May 2026