It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Hunter Michael Smith, a beloved athlete from Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU), who died too soon.
Hunter, a student-athlete from Plattsmouth, Nebraska, was a bright, determined young man whose impact was felt deeply by all who knew him. The news of his death was confirmed through a social media post, though no official cause has been reported at this time.
Hunter was just 22 years old, born on July 15, 2002, to his loving parents Chris and Marla Smith. A talented pole vaulter, Hunter was known not only for his athleticism but also for his exceptional character.
He had an innate ability to connect with others, making everyone around him feel seen, heard, and appreciated. Whether as a son, a brother, a teammate, or a friend, Hunter’s kindness, generosity, and work ethic set him apart.
His presence was a source of light, and his unwavering commitment to helping others made him a cherished individual within the SMSU community. Hunter was dedicated to both his studies and his athletics, excelling in both.
His love for learning was as evident as his passion for track and field. As a student-athlete in the Department of Political Science, Hunter was a model of balance, managing the demands of rigorous academic work while pursuing his dreams in athletics.
His achievements in the classroom were equally as impressive as his performances on the field. Hunter was named to the CSC Academic All-District and Academic All-NSIC teams for both indoor and outdoor track seasons from 2022 to 2024, a testament to his discipline and time management skills.
In his athletic career, Hunter’s talent in pole vaulting was undeniable. He consistently achieved remarkable results, earning multiple honors throughout his time at SMSU.
