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INDIANAPOLIS (September 8, 2026) – The 500 Festival is now accepting applications for the 2027 500 Festival Princess Program, presented by The National Bank of Indianapolis. The program recognizes outstanding college-age women from across Indiana who demonstrate leadership, a commitment to service, and embody the Hoosier spirit. Applications are open at 500Festival.com/Princess through January 10, 2027, at 11:59 pm EST.
The Princess Program provides young women with opportunities to grow as leaders, serve their communities and represent the 500 Festival and the Indianapolis 500. Selected Princesses will participate in community outreach, volunteer initiatives, professional development experiences, and signature 500 Festival events from February through May.
Program Highlights:
- Leadership and Community Impact: Princesses serve as ambassadors for the 500 Festival, demonstrating strong leadership while making a positive impact on their schools, local communities, and across Indiana.
- Scholarship Support: Each Princess receives a $1,500 scholarship, made possible through the generosity of Marlyne Sexton (in memoriam) and the 500 Festival Foundation.
- Professional Growth: Princesses gain mentorship from the 500 Festival Board of Directors, develop leadership and public speaking skills, and build lasting professional and personal connections through unique networking opportunities.
- A Legacy of Excellence: Since its founding in 1959, the Princess Program has recognized and celebrated over 2,500 women, empowering generations of young leaders throughout Indiana.
“Being a participant in the 500 Festival Princess Program was one of the most rewarding experiences,” said McKinley Underhill, 2026 500 Festival Princess. “It gave me the confidence to step outside of my comfort zone, build lifelong friendships, and grow as a leader in my community.”
Top applicants will interview with an independent panel of community leaders on January 23 in Indianapolis. From there, 66 will advance to a second round on January 30, after which 33 will be selected to serve as the 2027 500 Festival Princesses.
Applicants are evaluated based on:
- Communication skills
- Commitment to service
- Academic excellence
- Leadership
- Professionalism
“I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact the 500 Festival Princess Program has on young women as they gain confidence, discover their voices, and grow as leaders,” said Regina Laux, First Vice President, Private Banking Manager at The National Bank of Indianapolis. “It is an honor to support their journey and be part of a program that invests in the next generation of confident and compassionate women.”
To learn more about the 500 Festival Princess Program and its eligibility requirements, please visit 500Festival.com/Princess.
The Princess Program is presented by The National Bank of Indianapolis and made possible through support from Marlyne Sexton (in memoriam), Khamis Fine Jewelers, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and the 500 Festival Foundation.
