Western offers counseling, support after death of student Meagan Elizabeth Smith

Western Washington University is offering counseling and support to friends of Western student Meagan Elizabeth Smith as they share their grief over her death.

Smith, a senior, was a victim of homicide at a home in Renton this week. She is a current Western student but was not taking classes during summer quarter.

“Our campus community offers its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Western student Meagan Smith,” said Eileen Coughlin, senior vice president and vice president for Enrollment and Student Services at Western. “We encourage students who knew Meagan and may be in need of support to please contact our Counseling Center.”

Counseling and other support options are being communicated to students who knew Smith. The Counseling Center provides support to Western students, and can be reached at 650-3164.

Many on campus remember Meagan Smith is a bright and talented person.

“The Liberal Studies Department is devastated at the news of this tragedy. Meagan was an outstanding young woman – an excellent student, a leader in the Liberal Studies Major, where her focus of study was on Religion and Culture, especially in non-Western societies, and where she had developed a particular interest in Nepal. She was a musician and an athlete, dedicated to serving her community, who made any class or any seminar brighter by her presence in it. She will be deeply missed,” said Kimberly Lynn, chair and associate professor in the Liberal Studies Department.

A funeral for will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, July 17, at St. Vincent De Paul Parish, at 30525 8th Ave. S. in Federal Way. A reception will be held after the service in the parish's social hall.