Settlement Reached in Wrongful Death Lawsuit Involving Katie Meyer

omidbasir- Stanford University and the family of Katie Meyer, the former star soccer goalkeeper and two-time team captain who tragically died by suicide in 2022, announced on Monday that they have reached a settlement regarding a wrongful death lawsuit filed against the institution.

At the time of her death, Meyer, who was 22 years old, was facing disciplinary action for allegedly spilling coffee on a Stanford football player accused of sexually assaulting a teammate. Meyer’s father contended that she was acting in defense of that teammate, who was a minor at the time.

The lawsuit, initiated in November 2022, claimed that on the evening of her death, Stanford had “negligently and recklessly” issued her a formal disciplinary notice that contained intimidating language regarding possible sanctions and the threat of “removal from the university.”

A spokesperson for Stanford previously refuted the claim that the university bore responsibility for her death.

In a joint statement released on Monday, the university and Meyer’s family revealed that Stanford would establish the Katie Meyer Leadership Award, which will be presented annually to an outstanding Stanford student-athlete. The announcement did not specify any monetary settlement, but it noted that Meyer’s jersey would be retired to honor the significant impact she had on Stanford women’s soccer.

Furthermore, the university stated its intention to implement the principles of Katie Meyer’s Law, aimed at providing necessary support for students navigating the disciplinary process. This legislation was passed by the California legislature and signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2024, ensuring that any public college or university in California offering financial aid must designate an advisor for students during disciplinary proceedings.

Additionally, the joint statement indicated that Stanford and the Meyer family have committed to collaborating on an initiative focused on enhancing the mental health and well-being of student-athletes.

Last year, ESPN released a documentary titled “Save: The Katie Meyer Story,” chronicling her life and the circumstances surrounding her death.