MARSHALL, Minn. -- The Southwest Minnesota State University community is mourning the sudden passing of track and field student-athlete Hunter Smith.
 
Smith, a fifth-year senior on the indoor and outdoor track and field teams, passed away over the weekend.
 
A native of Plattsmouth, Neb., Smith was a 2020 graduate of Plattsmouth High School. He was set to earn his MBA this spring and aspired to attend law school in the fall. Smith was heavily involved on campus at SMSU, serving as president of the campus Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and working 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."
 
SMSU is working to ensure both students and University staff have emotional and mental support as they process and grieve. Counselors are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can also reach them at 507-537-7150 or mentalhealth@SMSU.edu. On-demand emotional support is available at mantrahealth.com/smsu or 888-354-2952.

FCA will be holding a vigil Tuesday, Nov. 5, at 8 p.m. in the PE Gym on the campus of SMSU. All are welcome to attend.