Erica (Helmila) Smith - Class of 2026

(Marquette)

Erica (Helmila) Smith, a 2000 graduate of Marquette Senior High School, is recognized as one of the Upper Peninsula’s most accomplished female track and field athletes. A four-sport athlete, Erica (Helmila) Smith lettered in basketball, cross country, track and field, and volleyball, earning multiple All-Conference honors. She was named Academic All-State and received the United States Army Reserve National Scholar/Athlete Award. She earned UP All-State recognition in cross country. On the track, she claimed numerous UP Class A-B titles, including three consecutive championships in the 400m dash—setting a state record—two titles in the 1600m relay, and a championship in the 3200m relay, also setting a state record. Erica (Helmila) Smith ran collegiately at Grand Valley State University, where she qualified for four NCAA Division II National Championships. She earned distinction as a two-time NCAA Division II All-American, a four-time NCAA Division II Academic All-American, and was selected to the GLIAC Academic All-League and four First Team All-Conference rosters.