Hanna Kaster, this year's Rushfest princess, was chosen by an independent judging panel Aug. 16 based upon poise, leadership, and an essay written as an entry into the competition.

At Rushville Consolidated High School, she is involved in Student Council, FCA, freshmen cheerleading, and tennis. Community-wise, she works in 4-H, Junior Leaders, Relay for Life, and the St. Paul's United Methodist Church youth group.

Kaster's essay involved her feelings about growing up in Rush County, which she sees as a great place, where "people help people."

After high school, she is looking ahead to a possible career in nursing, which she hopes to pursue at Purdue University.

Her court includes Brittany Harcourt of Rushville and Katie Driesbach of Carthage.