MARSHALL — Southwest Minnesota State University pole vaulter Hunter Smith passed away over the weekend. The fifth-year senior was 22 years old.

Smith was a political science major and was slated to earn his Master of Business Administration in the spring before pursuing his law school aspirations in the fall. 

A 2020 graduate of Plattsmouth High School in Nebraska, Smith was a two-time state meet qualifier in high school as well as a conference wrestling champion and an academic all-state selection.

Beyond his involvement with the SMSU track and field team, on which he was a six-time Academic All-NSIC selection and two-time Academic All-District selection, Smith was also the president of Southwest Minnesota State University’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter and worked as a graduate assistant in the student center.

“Our campus community is grieving the loss of a wonderful young man,” said Jen Flowers, SMSU Director of Athletics. “Hunter was a tremendous leader on our campus, specifically within our track and field program. His impact was felt throughout campus because he was involved in so many different things. Our department was better with Hunter in it. On behalf of Mustang Athletics, we send our deepest condolences to Hunter’s family, loved ones, teammates, and friends. We will support each other through this difficult time and carry Hunter’s legacy with us.”

The FCA will hold a vigil at SMSU’s PE Gym tonight at 8 p.m. Emotional and mental support counselors are available for SMSU students and university staff on Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Counselors can also be reached at (507)537-7150 or mentalhealth@SMSU.edu. On-demand emotional support is available at mantrahealth.com/smsu or 888-354-2952.