NYU Mourns Passing of Lauren Beam

The entire New York University Community is saddened by the passing of \Lauren Beam, the women's swimming & diving coach since 2004 and a 1999 cum laude graduate of NYU's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development.
 
Her brave struggle with cancer finally ended on Saturday, September 10, and she will forever be remembered for her strength and courage throughout the battle.
 
Last year, NYU's Division of Student Affairs created the Lauren Beam Inspirational Award, and she was the first recipient. The honor “is presented to an extraordinary student, faculty or staff member who, when confronted with an extraordinary or life-altering situation, perseveres with determination, dedication and courage. This individual demonstrates grace under pressure in the face of adversity and serves as a role model to offer hope and inspiration to others."

Beam received the Lauren Beam Inspirational Award in front of over 100 family, friends, colleagues, and student-athletes last June in a ceremony held at NYU's Palladium Athletic Facility.
 
“Lauren was a terrific coach, teacher, and person. We will miss her spirit, sense of humor, energy, and humanity,” said Marc Wais, NYU's Vice President for Student Affairs.
 
Since taking over as head coach, Beam led the Violets to four Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Championships and a 60-6 overall record (.909), including perfect seasons in 2005-06 (8-0) and 2007-08 (11-0). She coaches 14 NCAA All-Americans, 15 NCAA Qualifiers, and was named ECAC Coach of the Year and University Athletic Association (UAA) Coach of the Year three times each.
 
“Lauren was as outstanding leader of young women and an accomplished alumnus who made a significant difference in the lives of hundreds of students during her tenure as head coach of New York University's women's swimming and diving team,” said Chris Bledsoe, NYU's Director of Athletics, Recreation and Intramurals. “She displayed talent, strength, persistence, and perseverance, and demonstrated the ability to stand tall and succeed in the face of adversity. She made others around her grow and flourish, and taught them to understand what it takes to become a winner.
 
“As an athlete, coach and role model, she set the bar extremely high and made everyone around her better for having come into contact with her,” Bledsoe added.