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This year, UC Davis Campus Recreation was honored to have two students selected for the NIRSA William N. Wasson Student Leadership and Academic Award. These awards recognize exceptional undergraduate and graduate students who set the standard for campus recreation departments across the country. Students from Region VI (comprising Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Montana, Utah, Idaho, Nevada, Arizona and California), were selected—two of them are Aggies!

Tanya’s path at the UC Davis Equestrian Center began not behind the scenes, but in the saddle. What started as a participant in lessons grew into a long-term journey through multiple roles, ultimately leading her to her current position as Barn Supervisor and Riding Instructor. Today, she helps oversee the care of more than 80 horses while continuing to contribute to the welcoming, hands-on environment that first drew her in.

Second-year Economics major Rona Hansen combines leadership, independence, and community-building as president of the UC Davis Water Ski Club—helping guide a unique, student-driven sport on campus.

For nearly sixty-five years, children from the foster care system and underserved communities have come to Cal Aggie Camp during the summer months to experience the outdoors and enjoy being a kid. This opportunity is provided at no cost to parents, agencies, or foster parents. The time spent at Cal Aggie Camp is not only transformative for the children, but has lasting impacts on the UC Davis students who serve as camp counselors. This is certainly true for Leilani Williams.

Student Spotlight: Learning, Leading, and Connecting Through Outdoor Adventures

Outdoor Adventures, aka OA within the UCD lingo, a program within UC Davis Campus Recreation offers students more than just time outside with a good view. It creates opportunities for leadership, growth, and meaningful connections. For Sonya, Mihika, and Miles, working with Outdoor Adventures has shaped their college experience in unique and memorable ways. 

Behind the scenes of one of the busiest buildings on campus, Marilee Lopez plays a vital role as a Building Supervisor at the Activities and Recreation Center (ARC). Each day, the ARC welcomes an average of 3,000 users, many of whom consider it a second home. For Marilee and other Member Services student employees, the ARC truly becomes a home away from home, a place where strong friendships are built and extend well beyond the workplace.

From the calming hum of pottery wheels to the purposeful sound of saws, the UC Davis Craft Center is a hub of creativity. But behind the artistic flow, a dedicated team of student managers works tirelessly to ensure every studio runs smoothly. This team includes Landscape Architecture major Jaida Jacobie (Arts & Craft/Jewelry Studio Manager), Art and Psychology double major Mike Raygoza (Ceramics Studio Manager), and Applied Physics major Zoe Ramos (Woodworking Studio Manager).

Of our many units in Campus Recreation lies Living Well. Down the hall on the first floor of the ARC, amazing students such as Juan Flores, a fourth-year Managerial Economics major, dedicate hours creating a wide range of indoor exercise options for our community. Now in his senior year, Juan has played an integral role in ensuring the positive impact within our community and exemplary team culture within the Living Well unit. 

Third-year Animal Science major Meadow Grant blends leadership, care, and collaboration in her behind-the-scenes role as Stunts Coordinator for the UC Davis Marching Band.

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