For Megan Broviak, the opportunity to serve as a princess in the 500 Festival is more than a prestigious title. It’s a meaningful extension of a lifelong connection to Indiana, service and personal resilience.
A 20-year-old sophomore at Butler University, Broviak is pursuing a dual major in Spanish and chemistry on the pre-med track. A 2024 graduate of Noblesville High School, she has long admired the impact of the 500 Festival Princess Program on both young girls and the broader Indianapolis community.
“I’ve grown up in Indiana my whole life and have been able to see the influence that these princesses have,” Broviak says. “I really wanted to be able to do the same.”
That aspiration became reality when she was selected as one of 33 young women chosen for the program. Building on her previous experiences, Broviak believes her work in an Indianapolis emergency department and her volunteer service throughout the city helped set her apart.
Now immersed in the program, Broviak says one of the most rewarding aspects has been the relationships she’s formed. In particular, being surrounded by a diverse group of driven and passionate women from varied backgrounds and life stages has brought her both inspiration and camaraderie.
“It’s been so amazing to meet all these women,” she says. “We all come from different hometowns and universities, and I think that diversity is something that makes the program really special.”
While the program is rooted in tradition and closely tied to the iconic Indianapolis 500, it also fosters personal growth. For Broviak, participating has meant stepping outside her comfort zone, building confidence and embracing the responsibility of representing something larger than herself.
“I’ve already grown so much,” she says. “It’s taught me leadership, responsibility and how to connect with others in a meaningful way.”
Making those meaningful connections is at the heart of Broviak’s mission. She hopes to leave a lasting impression on everyone she meets, particularly young girls who look up to the program’s participants.
“I want to be approachable and encourage others to step out of their comfort zones,” she says. “Especially for young girls, I want them to know they can follow their passions and achieve anything.”
Her passion for helping others extends far beyond the program. A relapse leukemia survivor, Broviak has turned her personal journey into purpose, fueling her long-term goal of becoming a physician. She currently works overnight shifts as an emergency department technician, gaining hands-on experience while continuing her studies.
Looking ahead, Broviak is focused on making the most of her time in the program, continuing to grow, serve and represent Indiana with pride. From once marching in the 500 Festival Parade as a high school senior to now participating as a princess, she finds herself returning to one of the state’s most cherished traditions in a new and impactful way.
“The Indy 500 represents community, tradition and bringing Hoosiers together,” she says. “It’s incredible to be part of something so meaningful.”
