University of Mary
BISMARCK, ND — The University of Mary announced its 2026 Homecoming King, Queen, and court during coronation ceremonies held Wednesday, October 1, in Founders Hall of the Lumen Vitae University Center (LVUC).
Homecoming Court includes
Madi Gifford grew up in western Nebraska and has lived in four different states, with her family currently residing in Hays, Kansas. She will graduate in May with a degree in elementary education. Gifford has been involved in student government and intramural sports during her time at Mary. She's also served St. Scholastica Hall and babysat for the Saint Teresa of Calcutta Community for Mothers. Her favorite things about college are pub nights, apartment life, hanging out with friends, hosting celebrations, and learning how to be a good teacher.
Some of Gifford’s’s accomplishments in college include finishing second in the Ungettable Games (which she lost in a showdown) and completing the Bismarck Marathon. Gifford is particularly grateful to the University of Mary for the opportunity to study abroad in Rome, which was a life-changing semester for her.
About the University of Mary
True to its motto, lumen vitae — The Light of Life — the University of Mary provides an education for the whole of life, preparing students for professional excellence, moral courage, leadership and service. Founded in 1959 by the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, Mary is a private, coeducational Christian, Catholic and Benedictine university that welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds.