Shining Star - 2025 500 Festival Princess

Congratulations to Maria Ayala ’28 for being named a 2025 500 Festival Princess. Ayala ’28, a first-year student at Marian University and a graduate of Perry Meridian High School, has been selected as one of the 33 women to serve as a 2025 500 Festival Princess. This prestigious program showcases Indiana’s most outstanding young women, chosen for their academic excellence, leadership, community involvement, and dedication to service.

“I’m thrilled to represent Marian and contribute to our community while celebrating Indiana’s rich traditions," said Ayala. The program fosters professional development, allowing participants to make meaningful connections and leave a lasting impact on their communities.

The 2025 class represents 17 Indiana colleges and universities, as well as 20 cities across the state, and has a cumulative GPA of 3.70. Ayala also joins an impressive history of Marian Women with this achievement!