Statement About the Passing of SDSU Student

San Diego State University has received confirmation that Sara Stelzer passed away today. Vice President of Student Affairs, Eric Rivera offers the following statement:

“I have been notified of the passing earlier today of Sara Stelzer to meningococcal meningitis.  We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our students to this terrible illness.  After speaking with her family, we know that Sara was a vibrant young woman who loved San Diego State, her friends and the time she spent at our university.  It is always difficult when a young life is lost, especially when that person is part of our SDSU family.  We will do all we can to support Sara's family and our campus community during this difficult time.  We know our students will come together to support one another but also want them to know that counseling services are available and we encourage students to contact Counseling and Psychological services, if needed.  Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with Sara's family and friends.” 

Students have been offered emergency counseling through SDSU Counseling and Psychological Services and are encouraged to contact them if they need support. They can be reached at 619-594-5220, or at their website.

Sara Stelzer was a first-time freshman studying pre-communications.

Stelzer was admitted to a local hospital Tuesday morning after a flu-like illness and was diagnosed with Meningococcal Meningitis. The university has been working with the County of San Diego Health and Human Services to identify and notify people who may have been in close contact with her. The university also notified the entire SDSU community, providing details about symptoms and where to go if they believe they had contact with Stelzer or are experiencing symptoms of meningitis.