LINKS
FAQ's
What is an honorary?
An honorary is a student run organization that is comprised of students that are directly affiliated with the University of Arizona, with codes of conduct and regulations aligned with the Associated Students of the University of Arizona. An honorary is comprised of students at a certain class standing who exhibit excellence through academic performance, participating in philanthropy, community service, fundraising and many other extracurricular activities.
When and how was Links founded?
The organization Chain Gang was founded in 1926 by 15 men, and the organization originally served the University by playing host to visiting athletic teams and promoting Wildcat spirit on campus.
In 1926, when Wildcat legend John "Button" Salmon died after an automobile accident, Chain Gang paid respect to his legendary last words, and now the University's official school motto, "Bear Down", by holding a fundraising dance in a campus building.
Using the funds raised from their dance, Chain Gang painted the words "Bear Down" atop the roof of Bear Down Gymnasium. The words and facility now serve as a memorial to Wildcat pride and act as a permanent fixture of University history. As of 2020, our group has decided to change our name to Links Junior Honorary in order to be more inclusive to every community.
Why do we wear rugbys?
Wearing the rugby has been one of the many long standing traditions of Links. Not only does the rugby sport the school colors and infamous block A, but each is marked by the year of involvement and unique number (1-35) associated with a particular lineage. The rugby is iconic and essential to our identity because everyone will ask and wonder the reason behind the rugby jersey, with the simple answer being the link's proud association with Links Junior Honorary.
Tradition?
TRADITION! Tradition is more than just a word, it is a story. Since our founding in 1926, Links has been a story that is told by each class in a different form with the same end result, a family of 35 links who have given it their all from donating money to charity, serving countless hours in our community, screaming the loudest at every UA sporting event, and becoming so close that like a chain, they are linked forever.
What do we do?
Links traditionally participates in:
- Regular social events designed to encourage fellowship and an ability to celebrate continuity with the previous Links classes
- Homecoming (week long celebration of the most fundamental event to the UofA)
- Philanthropy (Kicks for Squigs, Adopt a Highway, Bear Down Ball, and more!)
How do you join?
The application process for Links takes place each spring semester for students with a sophomore class standing. Selection occurs with a completion of an application and subsequent interview process. Applicants are required to be at the UofA for the entirety of their junior year. With regard to selection, Links looks for the most outstanding students who demonstrate their love for the UofA through their commitment to excellence, both in the classroom and in their community.