This spring, Marian University will have a representative in the 500 
Princesses Program.
Becky Kuhlman ’16, a communication major, is one of 33 young women chosen to serve as an ambassador of the 500 Festival, her hometown, and –in this case—Marian University.
With a record number of applicants this year, the selection process began back in October and looked at everything from a strong desire to serve others, to academic achievement, to a sense of humor.
“To be one of the 33 women is such a surreal feeling,” said Kuhlman, who applied for the program the day they began accepting applications. “I am so honored to be representing Marian University, Indianapolis, and all of Indiana as a 500 Festival Princess.”
In the months leading up to May, the 500 Festival Princesses are involved with statewide outreach programs. Kuhlman is leading an outreach team that travels to elementary schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and youth organizations.
“Visiting the elementary schools is one of my favorites because of the adorable questions the students will ask,” said Kuhlman. “Questions like, ‘Do you live in a castle?’ or ‘Where is your prince?’”
Of course, Kuhlman will also be a part of the bicentennial—the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500—and the many events leading up to the race including the 60th IPL 500 Festival Parade and the Chase 500 Festival Kids’ Day and Rookie Run as well. Having run in the last three OneAmerica Mini-Marathons, she will miss this year’s for a very special reason—she’s graduating from Marian University on that day!
“I will be trading in my tiara for a cap that day and walking across the graduation stage,” Kuhlman said.