President Daniel J. Elsener | Marian University website

Three Marian University students have been selected as 2024 500 Festival Princesses, becoming ambassadors and advocates for the 500 Festival Organization. The Princesses, Cassie Mitchell, Libbie Waterman, and Luci Woodrum, are set to engage and serve in their surrounding communities while celebrating the spirit of the 500 Festival.

In a statement, Princess Cassie Mitchell expressed her enthusiasm, "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to represent Marian University and the 500 Festival as a Princess." Princess Libbie Waterman also shared her excitement, stating, "Being a part of the 500 Festival Princess Program is a dream come true."

These young women will play a crucial role in educating Hoosiers about the iconic history of the 500 Festival and serving their communities. The 2024 500 Festival Princesses, representing 18 Indiana colleges and universities and 23 cities and towns across the state, were selected based on their leadership and academic performance.

Each Princess will receive a $1,000 scholarship and a custom pendant from Khamis Fine Jewelers, symbolizing the heart of a princess and the iconic Yard of Bricks representing the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Bob Bryant, the 500 Festival president and CEO, expressed his excitement for the impact these Princesses will have, stating, "We are thrilled to observe all the ways that this year's class of 500 Festival Princesses will impact the communities in Indiana and enable them to showcase their leadership and academic skills."

The 500 Festival Princess Program aims to create a positive impact on Indianapolis and the state of Indiana while celebrating the spirit of the Indianapolis 500. Princesses deliver over 1,500 hours of community outreach, impacting over 50,000 people and sparking excitement for the upcoming Indianapolis 500 race.

The 2024 500 Festival Queen Scholar will be announced on Saturday, May 18, during the 500 Festival Breakfast at the Brickyard, presented by Midwestern Engineers, Inc. As these young women continue to represent the 500 Festival, they are set to create lasting memories, outstanding networking experiences, and meaningful friendships for years to come.

To learn more about the 500 Festival Princess Program, visit 500Festival.com/Princess or search #PrincessProgram on social media.