Pop singer Daya to perform on campus

Some popular radio tunes will soon be heard coming from the Richard and Norma Small Multi-Sport Center.

National recording artist Daya will be this year’s Big Event, set for 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28. Daya has had three Top 40 hits since 2015: “Hide Away,”  “Sit Still, Look Pretty,” and “Don’t Let Me Down” with The Chainsmokers. The latter has been nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording.

“The Big Event was designed to give the students something fun and exciting to do during the cold, winter months,” said Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Student Life Angie Bauman Power.  “The donor, who provides funds for The Big Event, wants Cornell students to experience a larger, social event to keep them motivated and entertained during the winter.”

The annual series of performances and lectures is funded by a donation from alumnus Richard Williams ’63 and his wife, Marlene. The Williams Fund has been established in order to bring to campus lectures and special events which will stimulate students and enliven the campus community. Student Senate also co-sponsors the event, which is held every other year.

A committee of students worked with Bauman Power and an agent to select Daya based on the budget, the artists’ availability, and students’ interest.

The Big Event is only open to Cornell students, faculty, staff, and their guests. Admission is free with a Cornell ID.