The University of Arizona recently had its 110th annual Homecoming, a festive tradition that included the announcement of the new Homecoming royalty. This year, the winners are seniors Ella Frank of Chi Omega and Diego Gonzales Jr., who was nominated by UA Dance Collective.
The crowning ceremony began with lively performances from the University of Arizona Drumline, cheerleading and color guard. UA President Suresh Garimella opened the ceremony by expressing gratitude to both alumni and students. The nominees were announced with their families screaming their names and cheers erupting from friends in the crowd.
The anticipation continued before Frank and Gonzales Jr. were announced as this year’s UA Homecoming royalty. Both of them represent different organizations on campus which are dedicated to enhancing both the student experience and fostering community at the university.
Frank majors in Biology and has dual minors in Spanish and Physiology. In addition to being a member of Chi Omega, she is involved in competitive cheer and serves as a campus tour guide. Frank became a finalist after being selected by the Arizona Bobcats Honor Society, following a vote held after her nomination, similar to the process for Gonzales Jr.
Frank was ecstatic to be this year’s winner.
“I’m just so lucky and happy to be here right now surrounded by these wonderful people. Out of 55 of us in my sorority, I ended up being a top 5 finalist, it ended up being me and I’m just so glad.” Frank said.
After the announcement of the female winner, it was time to reveal the male winner. When Gonzales Jr.’s name was called, he immediately jumped up in excitement. He had similar thoughts about his selection as Frank did.
“I am just overflowing with love and gratitude for everyone. I feel like a bug full of love right now,” Gonzalezs Jr. said. “I want to thank the Dance Collective and my roommate, Adrienne Ndidkum. He made all my flyers and was supportive by picking me up at night.”
With both the contestants selected, they posed for photos with members of the committees and their respective student organizations. The evening continued with a lively bonfire, where the winners danced the night during the ball.
