During softball season, there's no Wildcats player that works harder than catcher Claire Wayne. But as she's demonstrated this fall, the senior gives it her all during the off-season as well, with a dedication and commitment that reaches well beyond the realm of sports. In recent weeks, Wayne has donated an amazing amount of time giving back to the community and embracing her role as a student leader—all while juggling a challenging course schedule. Her tireless efforts towards improving the student-athlete experience and helping make Chico State an integral part of the community fabric makes Wayne the latest Wildcat of the Week.
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Since the beginning of the fall semester, Wayne has served as co-president of the Wildcat Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), an organization that participates in many community service events while serving as a liaison to the various Chico State sports teams. In early November, Wayne and her Wildcat softball teammates staged a clinic for first and second graders at Chico's Hooker Oak Elementary School. And when the Camp Fire brought devastation to Paradise and surrounding communities, Wayne was one of several Wildcats to volunteer to assist Italian Guy Catering and World Central Kitchen in providing meals to thousands of displaced North Valley residents.
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Earlier this month Wayne was recognized for her off-the-field efforts by being one of 20 Chico State students honored at the President's Student Life and Leadership reception.
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A communication sciences and disorders major set to graduate in May, Wayne is also preparing for the upcoming Chico State softball season, which gets underway February 2. Wayne enters her final year as a Wildcat tied for fourth in program history with 16 career home runs, and is looking to help Chico State make a return trip to the NCAA Championship Finals.
