Stanford's Step Forward: Honoring Katie Meyer and Boosting Student-Athlete Mental Health

A deal has been reached between Stanford University and the family of Katie Meyer, a former soccer star who tragically took her own life in 2022. The university faced a lawsuit after Meyer's family claimed that disciplinary actions from Stanford contributed to her distress. Meyer, a talented goalie and team captain, was just 22 when she died. Her father shared that she was upset about potential disciplinary action from the university. The lawsuit mentioned that a formal notice sent to her before her death included harsh language about possible sanctions and even expulsion. Both sides have now settled the case, though the details of the agreement remain private. Stanford and Meyer's family are teaming up to create a mental health initiative for student-athletes. This initiative will be part of the Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance.Additionally, Stanford will introduce the Katie Meyer Leadership Award to celebrate outstanding student-thletes each year. More details about the award and the mental health program will be shared later. The university will also adopt the principles of Katie Meyer's Law, which helps students during disciplinary proceedings. This law, signed by California Governor Gavin Newsom in 2024, allows students to have an adviser during these processes. As a tribute to Meyer's legacy, her No. 19 jersey will be retired. Meyer played a crucial role in Stanford's 2019 national championship win, making two key saves in the final game against North Carolina.