Campus mourns death of well-loved student

The University of Wisconsin–Madison community is marking the passing of Neha Suri, a beloved 22-year-old senior journalism and political science major from Singapore.

Suri passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 2 at UW Hospital and Clinics from meningococcal disease, with family and friends at her side. Her family has granted permission for information about her career on campus to be shared.

A campus memorial is tentatively planned for after 4:15 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 3 in the Virginia F. Harrison Parlor in Lathrop Hall, 1050 University Ave.

Suri’s brief illness brought together hundreds of students and staff from the many corners of campus that she touched.

In addition to working for Recreational Sports at the SERF and writing for the Daily Cardinal, she also interned at the state Capitol and was active in the campus arts scene.

“We’re tremendously saddened at this news,” says Dean of Students Lori Berquam. “The outpouring of love toward Neha and her family has been absolutely remarkable. It is a rare thing, and I know people will appreciate the person she was and the impact she had on so many.”

“Neha was beloved by all who knew her,” adds Dale Carruthers, Recreational Sports director. “Her smile and warm demeanor made her a pleasure to be around. She represented Recreational Sports very well and we will miss her both personally and within the work environment.”

Meningococcal disease is a rare and serious bacterial infection that can cause very grave illness or death.

However, Suri’s case is not believed to present a health risk to members of the UW–Madison community, says Dr. Sarah Van Orman, director of University Health Services (UHS).

Immediately after her hospitalization, Suri’s roommates from her off-campus apartment were contacted and treated with antibiotics as a precaution. UHS is continuing to coordinate with officials from Public Health Madison-Dane County and will continue to closely monitor the situation.

For more information about meningococcal disease, visit: http://www.uhs.wisc.edu/display_story.jsp?id=106&cat_id=98

Should you have questions, you may also contact UHS at (608) 265-5600.

A variety of services are also available to students who may want someone to talk to in the wake of her death. Students are encouraged to call UHS Counseling and Consultation Services at (608) 265-5600.