Wash U Student Remembered as 'Beautiful Soul'

A  student who died Wednesday from complications of meningococcal disease is being remembered as an artist, athlete and a friend in her hometown. 

Emily Benatar passed away at Barnes-Jewish Hospital Wednesday morning. Benatar was attending the College of Arts & Sciences.

Benatar was a graduate of Palo Alto High School and an original member of the girls lacrosse team, according the the Mercury News.

Benatar, who played as an attacker on the team, had a quality about her that glowed both on and off the field, Coach Jamie Nesbitt told the Mercury News. "She was a positive influence on everyone, and her passion "made the situation better. ... She was a one-of-a-kind."

Her high school vice principal praised Benatar, telling the Mercury News: 

"She was a walking positive adjective: smart, driven, athletic, nice, wholesome," Jerry Berkson said.

Benatar, 19, was a freshman who lived in the South 40. Students held a midnight vigil for her Wednesday, according to Wash U's Student Life. 

To view an online guestbook for Benatar, click here.

Read previous Patch coverage on Benatar: