SILVER CITY, NM - Erika Beltran's journey at Western New Mexico University began on the dusty cross country courses that wind through rugged Southwestern terrain, where she wore the Mustang uniform with quiet determination and a steady stride. A native of North Hills, California, Beltran joined the WNMU women's cross country team and quickly became a consistent presence in the squad's mid-pack, representing the heart of the team with every race she ran. During her time as a Mustang, Beltran took on courses across the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference and beyond, competing in events from the UC San Diego Triton Classic to the RMAC Championships and NCAA South Central Regional Championships. Her performance in 2013 at the George Kyte Classic saw her navigate nearly three miles of challenging trail against a competitive field, contributing to the team's strong finish against several regional programs.
Across the 2013 season, Beltran continued to show resilience and commitment. At the Dave Murray Invitational in Tucson, she ran with the same steady focus that defined her seasons, clocking times that helped anchor the Mustang pack. Throughout that year, she ran the 5K and 6K distances against some of the region's top Division II competition, crossing challenging terrain and distances with determination. She also competed at the RMAC Championships in Silver City, where the race tested endurance and grit on one of the league's most demanding home courses.
Beltran's time at WNMU was built on more than just split times or race results. She was part of a team effort that embodied the Mustang spirit—grit, growth, and collective ambition. She balanced the demands of competition with the academic rigor expected at the university and graduated in 2013, leaving behind a legacy of consistency and quiet leadership that teammates and coaches remember.
After her competitive running days concluded, Beltran continued her connection with Western New Mexico University in a new capacity. She transitioned from the cross country course to the administrative ranks of the institution she once represented as an athlete. Today, she serves as a Budget Administrator at Western New Mexico University, working within the Finance and Business Affairs division and helping to manage key aspects of the university's budgeting and financial planning efforts.
In her role on campus, Beltran applies the same discipline and focus that she once used to log miles for the Mustangs. Her involvement in the daily operations of the university's fiscal responsibilities reflects a dedication to service and commitment to the institution's long-term success. While her days of racing across varied terrain may be behind her, the principles that guided her as a student-athlete—perseverance, balance, and attention to detail—continue to shape her professional life.
Erika Beltran's story is one of continuity and evolution. From the cross country trails to the corridors of university administration, her path illustrates how the lessons of collegiate athletics can translate into meaningful and impactful work long after the final race has been run.
Stay tuned for our next Alumni of the Week.
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Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram).
