Scholarship honors memory of UW-Madison student Neha Suri

The University of Wisconsin–Madison community is honoring the memory of Neha Suri, a beloved 22-year-old senior journalism and political science major who passed away in February at UW Hospital and Clinics from meningococcal disease.

The Department of Political Science and the School of Journalism and Mass Communication have established The Neha Suri Scholarship Fund.

Suri’s brief illness brought together hundreds of students and staff from the many corners of campus that she touched and this scholarship is a way to remember her impact and influence.

“Neha would be walking across the stage in two weeks. Her passion for learning and living is felt by many who knew her,” said Lori Berquam, dean of students. “She is missed and this scholarship will honor the love Neha felt for the UW and the many friends she touched while studying here.”

Suri exemplified the very best of UW–Madison students in her studies and extracurricular activities with her work at the Southeast Recreational Facility, writing for The Daily Cardinal and interning in the state Capitol.

The Neha Suri Scholarship will be awarded to juniors or seniors majoring in political science or journalism and mass communication. Reflective of Suri’s time at UW–Madison, a strong preference will be given to applicants seeking a combined major in both areas of study with a passion for service and/or campus involvement.

“Neha was an inspiration to her fellow students and was destined for great things,” John Coleman, chair of the Department of Political Science, said. “We are pleased to join forces to honor her by helping future students achieve great things.”

Both the Department of Political Science and the School of Journalism and Mass Communication have contributed $1,000 each, with an additional seed gift of $1,000 from the Daily Cardinal Alumni Association. The goal is to reach $10,000 of support which will permanently endow the fund in the College of Letters & Science and offer an annual scholarship in Suri’s memory.

“Neha touched many lives in the short time she spent with us, and we are honored to be able to help set up this scholarship fund in her name,” Greg Downey, director of the School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

To make a gift to the Neha Suri Scholarship Fund, please contact Jennifer Karlson at the UW Foundation (608) 262-7225 or make a gift online.