Sen. Emily Couric — a friend of the University, an advocate for education

STATE SEN. EMILY COURIC, who died Oct. 18 after a 15-month battle with pancreatic cancer, was remembered by University President John T.Casteen III as a “much-respected and much-loved member of not only the Charlottesville/Albemarle community, but of the University community as well. We have all lost a good friend, and she will be greatly missed.” Couric, 54, had represented the 25th District, which includes the University, since 1995, and made support for education a major priority in her work.

“She was a strong advocate for the University of Virginia, often lobbying on its behalf as a state senator. More importantly, she considered every employee her responsibility, and became a watchdog for their well-being,” Casteen said.

“Together, the University community joins in offering its condolences to the Couric/Beller family — especially to her husband George Beller, head of the University’s cardiovascular division, and her sons — at this sad time.”

A strong and effective advocate for public education and health care issues, Couric had numerous legislative accomplishments including bills establishing the Advanced Mathematics and Technology Diploma Seal for high school graduates, the Commonwealth Neurotrauma Initiative to support research and rehabilitation for victims of spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries, and the nation’s first state law mandating health insurance coverage for colorectal cancer screenings.

Couric patroned a bill that became law last year allowing state agencies to donate surplus equipment, such as computers and peripheral equipment to non-profit organizations, public schools and other organizations which provide services to at-risk youths. Since then, U.Va. has been able to assist about 40 organizations, giving away more than 160 computers.

Couric also developed the concept for the annual University Legislative Forum on education issues affecting U.Va. and the state.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Cancer Center Patient Support Services, Box 800334, U.Va. Health System, Charlottesville, Va. 22908.