For Emma Pearce, the dream of becoming an 500 Festival Princess Program Princess didn’t begin in college. It started in childhood, sitting along the parade route and looking up at the young women waving from passing floats.
“I remember when I was little, one of the princesses blew me a kiss,” Pearce says. “From that moment on, I knew I wanted to be part of this program.”
At 19, the Noblesville High School graduate and Indiana University student is realizing her dream by serving as a member of this year’s 500 Festival Princess Program, which she calls “the honor of a lifetime.”
Pearce, a sports media major with a journalism certificate, has deep ties to the Indianapolis 500 and its surrounding traditions. Her family has attended the 500 Festival Parade for as long as she can remember, with this year marking her 20th parade, and their connection to the race runs even deeper.
“My grandfather has gone to 71 straight Indy 500s,” she says. “This will be his 72nd. So I grew up going to the race every year. It’s always been a huge part of my life.”
Her personal connection to the race, combined with her passion for community, distinguished Pearce in the competitive selection process, especially with this year’s festival theme of “Racing Through History.”
“I have such a deep respect for the history of the race and the festival,” she says. “And I really love the Indianapolis and Noblesville communities. Being able to represent both is incredibly special to me.”
As a Festival Princess, Pearce engages with the community through outreach events, including an appearance at Noble Crossing Elementary School’s carnival, and by organizing activities at the daycare where she works during school breaks.
“I’ve tried to plan as many events as I can,” she says. “I just want to bring excitement and positivity to the community in the name of the 500 Festival.”
At Indiana University, Pearce balances her studies with photography work for Indiana Hoosiers, directly supporting her goal of a career in sports photography in motorsports.
Her commitment to service shines through in other areas as well. She also serves on the public relations committee for Riley Children’s Foundation, further demonstrating her community involvement.
As she participates in the Princess Program, Pearce seeks to better understand the behind-the-scenes efforts that make Indiana’s iconic event possible and to deepen her bond with the community.
“I want to look back on this experience and feel proud of the impact I made,” she says. “Not just the events I attended, but the excitement and positivity I helped create.”
Looking ahead, Pearce has advice for young women considering applying to the program: take the leap.
“I almost didn’t apply,” she says. “I waited until the last day because I didn’t think I was qualified enough. But you just have to go for it.”
From a little girl watching the parade to riding in it as a Festival Princess, Emma Pearce’s journey highlights her commitment to tradition, community and inspiring young women, completing a full circle driven by her passion and sense of purpose.
