Sarah Lee Best Obituary, Death – Sarah Lee Best, a 33-year-old graduate of Vanderbilt University, has been identified as one of the victims in a tragic collision involving an American Airlines flight and an Army Black Hawk helicopter. The incident occurred as American Airlines Flight 5342, which was carrying 64 people, collided with the helicopter that was carrying three soldiers as both approached Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington D.C.
Best, originally from Clarksville, Tennessee, was a respected associate at the Wilkinson Stekloff Law Firm in Washington, D.C. Before pursuing her legal career, she had a background in education, teaching high school math and working as an instructional coach in Tennessee. Best was highly regarded in her professional community, and her accomplishments extended beyond the legal field.
In 2021, she graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Law School, earning her Juris Doctor degree. Her professors at Penn Law described her as “brilliant,” and she was known for her intellectual prowess, kindness, and compassion. Penn Law’s Dean, Sophia Z. Lee, expressed deep sorrow over Best’s death, acknowledging her as a beloved member of the law school community. “We are heartbroken by the loss of Sarah Best, a brilliant, kind, and compassionate soul who touched the lives of so many,” Lee said. “Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and loved ones during this tragic time.”
Best’s academic journey began at Vanderbilt University, where she graduated summa cum laude in 2013 with a B.A. in Neuroscience and Classical Languages. Her exceptional academic achievements, combined with her warmth and generosity, made her a cherished individual among her peers and mentors.