Six New Funfest Ambassadors Crowned

Monday, a six girls became Eagan royalty amid tears, shouts and applause. Karina Monson, Sarah Fischer, Katherine Wilmes, Julia Sexton, Izzy Bui and Ashlyn King are the city's newest group to join the ranks of Funfest Ambassadors.

The girls were chosen by a panel of judges who evaluated the 13 candidates' public presence, behind-the-scenes interactions, social skills, communication, attitude and volunteerism.

The coronation ceremony on Monday night marked a milestone for not just the girls, but the program itself. The program, formerly known as Miss Eagan Funfest, went on a hiatus for two years. It reappeared in 2012 substantially changed. Where once the competition included a talent portion and saw candidates competing for the titles of “Queen” and “Princess,” the newly revived program emphasizes volunteerism, public speaking and citizenship. It is open to both young women and young men. 

Outgoing ambassadors offered profuse and heartfelt thanks to the committee for bringing the ambassador program back to life. All spoke glowingly of the spirit of camaraderie the program inspired between them and the effect that serving as ambassador had had on their sense of poise and confidence.

"I used to think that the crown was magic. Now I know that the magic is inside me," said Cassidy Beyer, ambassador for 2012 to 2013. "Even an 11-year-old girl can make a difference."