Emily Nickels 500 Festival Princess

Bob and Sondra Gullion welcome Emily Nickels, 500 Festival Princess

Emily Nickels, a 500 Festival Princess for 2014, told Kiwanians about her experiences and observations.  The 2014 Princesses serve as ambassadors of the 500 Festival, the 2014 Indianapolis 500 and their hometowns.  The princesses represent and participate at 500 Festival events and programs throughout the month of May.  In addition, the 33 princesses are involved with statewide outreach programs by organizing and facilitating numerous volunteer opportunities.  The 33 Princesses also receive professional development training, including networking and public speaking/presentation opportunities. 

The 500 Festival interviewed 230 applicants from across the state of Indiana on Saturday, Jan. 25, narrowing the selection to 66 women. The judges then conducted a second-round interviews on Saturday, Feb. 8, selecting the final 33 to serve as ambassadors.

Since being selected, she has participated in several service projects.  At the YMCA she excited a young Muncie boy by giving him a small toy car.  At another a young girl wanted to give Emily her princess dresses.    In addition Emily participated in activities at Kids Day, Community Day, Breakfast at the Brickyard, the Memorial Service, and Volunteer Appreciation Day. She appeared in the 500 Festival Parade, attended the Snake Pit Ball, and was driven around the track on race day at the Indianapolis 500.

Emily is a 2011 graduate of Greenfield Central High School and currently is a Senior at Ball State University where she is studying Public Relations and Marketing.