A Whiteland native is one of 33 women selected as a 2017 500 Festival Princess.
Madison Kovacs, a graduate of Whiteland Community High School and a junior at the University of Indianapolis, was selected last week by the 500 Festival. The festival princesses serve as ambassadors of the 500 Festival and Indiana, according to a news release.
The princesses were selected from hundreds of applicants based on their communication skills, leadership, scholarship, commitment to service and professionalism, the release said.
Kovacs is majoring in psychology and pre-occupational therapy and minoring in gender studies. As part of being named a festival princess, she will receive a $1,000 scholarship.
In May, one of the 33 festival princesses will be selected at the 500 Festival Queen and receive an additional $1,500 scholarship, the release said.
Through May, princesses will be involved in volunteer events, including visits to hospitals, schools and youth programs. They will also take part in pre-race ceremonies and the victory circle celebration at the Indianapolis 500.
