INDIANAPOLIS - The Clayton State Department of Athletics has been named one of 26 finalists for the 2022 NCAA Division II Award of Excellence, the association announced Monday. 

The award recognizes initiatives in the past year that exemplify the Division II philosophy, community engagement and student-athlete leadership. 

Division II honors its members each year for conducting events that promote student-athletes giving back and serving as leaders within their communities or on their campuses. A committee of athletics administrators determined this year's finalists, and the national Division II Student-Athlete Advisory Committee selects the winner, who will be announced at the Division II business session Jan. 22 at the 2022 NCAA Convention.

The Lakers were selected for their campus beautification initiative where student-athletes and staff walk the campus weekly to collect any garbage left on campus. Each team is responsible for a specific week, and the initiative has made a positive impact on the campus.  

This initiative served as the Lakers' iTHINK Financial Service Project of the Month for October and November. 

Clayton State has been placed in the top two of the Helper Helper Division II rankings for the entire fall and will look to continue its community engagement this spring. 

iTHINK Financial proudly serves as the title sponsor for Clayton State Athletics' monthly community service project and, through that partnership, helps support the many endeavors to enhance the Laker student-athlete experience.

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