New York University fencing legend Peter Westbrook passed away on Friday at the age of 72 following a two-year battle with liver cancer. 

Westbrook graduated from NYU's Leonard N. Stern School of Business in 1975 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce.

A six-time USA Olympian and 13-time National Champion, Westbrook was inducted into the NYU Athletics Hall of Fame in 1985. He won the 1973 NCAA Saber Championship as a Violet and helped lead NYU to the 1973 and 1974 NCAA Team Championships.   

A pioneer in the sport of fencing, in 1984 Westbrook became the first African-American and Asian-American to win an Olympic medal. In 1991, he founded the Peter Westbrook Foundation, which has served more than 4,000 scholar-athletes.

A tribute to his life and legacy can be found in this December 1 New York Times article.

"Peter was an extraordinary individual and one of the most influential figures in the sport of fencing," said NYU Head Fencing Coach Ben Bratton. "His contributions to the sport, both as an athlete and as an advocate for young fencers (including myself) through the Peter Westbrook Foundation, have left an enduring legacy. His impact on the fencing world, his dedication to mentorship, and his commitment to the development of the next generation of athletes will be remembered by all who had the privilege to work with him."

A special tribute will be observed at NYU's final home match of the season on January 24.