PFW senior named Miss 500 Festival princess

Purdue University Fort Wayne’s Bridget Bane is one of 33 college-age women selected to serve as princesses for this year’s 500 Festival. As a member of the 500 Festival Princess Program, Bane will take part in activities throughout the month of May, leading up to the Indianapolis 500 on May 26, and beyond. Other outreach opportunities for these ambassadors include visits to hospitals, nursing homes, schools, community celebrations, and various youth programs.

A senior in the PFW Honors Program, Bane is majoring in education studies with minors in psychology, sociology, and mild interventions, earning a behavior analysis and techniques certificate.

“PFW gave me my unique connections in the community with different internships and opportunities to serve with organizations as a volunteer,” Bane said. “I was able to speak with confidence about my studies with passion because I truly love my minors and elementary education. I love being able to represent PFW and the Fort Wayne area. It is home!”

After graduating in May, Bane will continue to work in special education while also attending grad school to become an elementary school guidance counselor. She chose PFW because a flexible class schedule allowed her to work as a substitute teacher and administrative assistant.