Students can transport themselves to France this weekend at the Versailles-themed President’s Ball, hosted by the Student Activities Board, Feb. 7 from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. in the Searle Center. Swing dancing begins at 8:30 p.m. Sugar cookies, cheesecake bites, charcuterie cups, and mocktails will be served. 

This year’s President’s Ball will feature the usual staples like dancing, food, and a photobooth, with an added fun addition for students to enjoy, according to Director of Student Activities Ingrid Dornbirer ’24.

“A little sneak peek is that we’re bringing in a caricaturist this year. People will get to sit down and have their portrait done,” Dornbirer said. 

Around 9:40 p.m., SAB will announce the President’s Ball court, and College President Larry Arnn will crown the winners, according to Dornbirer. 

“We’ll get to see which seniors win and get to dance with Dr. and Mrs. Arnn,” said senior Emma Kate Mellors, a SAB media team lead.

The Jerry Ross Band will play music throughout the night as they have in past years, according to Mellors.

“This is one of my favorite events because of the band that we bring in,” Mellors said. “The Jerry Ross Band is always very energetic and upbeat, and it’s so fun to see everyone having a good time on the dance floor.”

Dornbirer said this event offers activities for everyone. 

“If you’re a big dancer and want to be in the center of the mosh pit, that’s really fun. If you just come for the food, that’s also fine. There are lots of places to just sit and chat, even if you’re just an enjoyer of music,” Dornbirer said. 

The Hoynak Room will be open during the event and will have student art on display, according to Dornbirer. 

“This is playing into the Versailles theme,” Dornbirer said. “Originally, we kind of leaned more into an art gallery theme, and then it developed into Versailles.”