In this episode of It’s an Honor, Dr. Pollard speaks with Alison Flynn Gaffney, CEO of Banner – University Medical Center Tucson and Banner – University Medical Center South.

Within the W.A. Franke Honors College, we are privileged to have outstanding women scholars and leaders who contribute immensely to our campus community and beyond!

Through the Venture Studio, sisters and Franke Honors Wildcats Rebecca Ursule and Felista Nabintu are preparing to present their startup ideas at a hackathon in collaboration with Parsons School of Design.

In this episode, Dean Pollard speaks with Dr. Patricia A. Prelock, Provost and Chief Academic Officer at the University of Arizona, about the personal experiences and intellectual passions that shaped her career as a scientist, clinician, and academic leader.

The W.A. Franke Honors College acknowledges Benjamin Driggs as our 2025-26 Alumni of the Year. This award is given to graduates who have bestowed honor on the college through significant contributions and accomplishments that embody the mission of the W.A. Franke Honors College.

In this episode, Dr. Pollard speaks with Wesley Warshawer—Winter 2025 Convocation Speaker, 2025 Young Alumni Awardee, and W.A. Franke Honors alumnus—to explore the role of curiosity, global perspective, and lived experience in shaping a meaningful path.

From founding student clubs to supporting her peers – and researching improved treatment options in health care – Franke Honors Wildcat Natalie Rawlings has made a lasting impact during her undergraduate years at the U of A.

This February marks 100 years of Black history commemorations.

Through funding from an Exploratory Mini Grant, Franke Honors senior Anusha Sharma has created a children's book that combines meaningful research, personal narrative, and creativity.