The W.A. Franke Honors College hosts Franke Fling, a free night of fun for all Wildcats

Hannah Palmisano

April 4, 2023

The flier for the first ever W.A. Franke Honors College’s Franke Fling. The dance will be held in Bear Down Gymnasium on April 7, from 7-9 p.m. (Photo Courtesy of Farah Sawal.)

The University of Arizona’s W.A. Franke Honors College is hosting the first-ever Franke Fling on Friday, April 7, from 7-9 p.m. in Bear Down Gymnasium. All Wildcats are welcome to attend, and the event is completely free.

This is the first W.A. Franke Honors College dance, and it took a lot of teamwork from Honors Student Leaders, Honors faculty and staff alike.

Farah Sawal, a senior studying neuroscience and cognitive science with an emphasis in neurobiology, is one of the PATH Student Leads for the event. She is involved in the marketing for Franke Fling on Instagram and also contributes to planning event details.

“We wanted to make this event as inclusive as possible and fun for everyone. So I am looking forward to everyone having a great time and making fond college memories to look back on,” Sawal said.

The theme for the event, “Starry Night,” is based on the famous Vincent van Gogh painting.

“When you think of Tucson, many people think of the natural beauty and the stars in our skies. We want this beauty and sense of wonder to be felt at the dance,” Sawal said.

According to Sawal, there will be plenty of seating for people to talk and relax, a red carpet, a photographer and a starry night-themed photo booth. In terms of some of the refreshments and snacks that will be available, Wildcats can also look forward to free mocktails, cotton candy and popcorn.

All Wildcats must bring their CatCards in order to enter the event.

While you do not have to RSVP to attend, it is highly encouraged to do so to help the W.A. Franke Honors College get a rough estimate on needs for staffing, food and drinks. Filling out the RSVP form comes with the opportunity to submit a song request, so the dance playlist will be curated by those who attend.

In Sawal’s words, “Remember, this event is completely free! Take advantage of this opportunity to dress up and have fun with your friends. So c’mon now! Dust off your dancing shoes and come to Franke Fling!”