Stanford and Katie Meyer’s Family Settle Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Stanford University and the family of late student-athlete Katie Meyer have reached a settlement in a wrongful death lawsuit. The announcement was made on January 25, 2026, amid grief over Meyer’s tragic passing in 2022 at the age of 22.
Background of the Case
Katie Meyer was a prominent goalkeeper and two-time team captain of the Stanford women’s soccer team. She died by suicide while facing disciplinary action from the university. This action was reportedly linked to a coffee-spilling incident involving a Stanford football player accused of sexual assault.
Meyer’s father stated that his daughter acted protectively towards a teammate who was a minor at the time. The lawsuit, filed in November 2022, accused Stanford of acting “negligently and recklessly” by sending a formal disciplinary notice to Meyer on the night of her death, detailing possible sanctions including removal from the university.
Settlement Details
The joint statement released by Stanford and Meyer’s family did not disclose any financial terms of the settlement. However, several initiatives were announced to honor Meyer’s legacy and enhance student support.
- A new Katie Meyer Leadership Award will be established to recognize an outstanding Stanford student-athlete annually.
- Meyer’s soccer jersey will be retired, symbolizing her significant contributions and impact on the team.
- Stanford will implement “Katie Meyer’s Law,” which mandates that designated advisers assist students during disciplinary proceedings.
- A collaboration was proposed to launch a mental health initiative focused on supporting student-athletes.
Legislative Context
Katie Meyer’s Law was enacted by the California legislature and signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2024. The legislation aims to protect students and provide essential resources during potential disciplinary actions.
Community Impact
In addition to honoring Meyer’s memory, this settlement marks a vital step towards improving the conditions for student-athletes at Stanford. The upcoming initiatives reflect a commitment to mental health and well-being in high-pressure environments.
This tragic case has garnered national attention, leading to increased awareness of the mental health challenges faced by student-athletes. In 2025, ESPN released a documentary titled “Save: The Katie Meyer Story,” detailing her life and struggles, further amplifying the dialogue surrounding student support and mental health.
