Fandango, typically an annual senior class event, will be held in person for the first time in two years on April 8. 

Fandango is a night for both faculty members and the senior class to celebrate their past four years together. Held virtually last year due to COVID-19, Senior Class President Grant Holt ’22 is planning this year’s event in person. Holt also organized the senior soiree in the fall. 

AVI will cater the event and the Senior Class Committee also plans to include student bands. Envisioning the party to take place in the Gund Commons ballroom and outdoor courtyard, Holt hopes to have a number of string lights hung in order to create a festive ambience. “It’s called Fandango just in reference to a lighthearted party or night of fun,” he wrote in an email to the Collegian. 

There will also be an announcement at the event regarding who the baccalaureate speaker will be for Commencement, for whom the seniors had the opportunity to vote. 

COVID-19 policies have been an important consideration during the planning process. Normally held 100 days before graduation, this year’s Fandango will take place after spring break so it can be held outside. The Senior Class Committee, AVI and the Office of Student Engagement have been working closely with Senior Director of Wellness Chris Smith and the COVID-19 Steering Committee in planning the event to ensure it will be as safe as possible.

Holt noted that this year’s Fandango is especially meaningful as an opportunity for people to come together in a world where isolation and quarantining have become common aspects of life. “Fandango is going to be another chance for seniors and faculty to have fun and make memories together,” he wrote.