Augustana Crowns Royals at 2026 Viking Days Coronation

Augustana University students Vy Nguyen '27 and Ridge Fisher '27 were crowned the 2026 Viking Days Royals during a coronation ceremony Wednesday, Oct. 21, in the Elmen Center.

Fisher, of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, is a mathematics major with a minor in data science. During his time at Augustana, he has enjoyed serving as a Viking guide and admission ambassador.

"The community here is very special," Fisher said. "Being a part of something bigger than yourself is impactful and just having people around you be so welcoming and caring is super cool, as well."

Fisher was escorted by his mom, stepdad, dad and sister, who drove more than three hours to celebrate the special moment with him.

"I am very glad they were able to make it. It made it that much more special that my family was able to be there along with my friends," he said.

Being crowned a royal meant even more being chosen by his peers. To Fisher, the crown represented the impact he has made on campus.

"Being crowned means that I have made an impact on the people around me and have become significantly involved in the community of Augustana," he said. "I want to help set the example that you can be involved in both roles that require responsibility and in roles that don't require any at all."

After graduation, Fisher hopes to use his degree to find a career he enjoys and is considering pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Augustana. He said Augustana has provided once-in-a-lifetime experiences while helping prepare him for the future.

"Without AU, I would not be the person I am today and would be much less prepared for life after school," said Fisher. "It has definitely shaped me in many ways as a person."

Nguyen, of Gregory, South Dakota, is a Civitas Honors Program student and a biology major on the premed track. After graduation, Nguyen hopes to attend medical school, with the long-term goal of becoming an OB-GYN.

Other members of the 2026 Royal Court include:

• Mariam Alinizi '27, of Luverne, Minnesota

• Parker Carbonneau '27, of Luverne, Minnesota

• Ridge Fisher '27, of Thief River Falls, Minnesota

• Maya Madson '27, of Sioux Falls

• Vy Nguyen '27, of Gregory, South Dakota

• Chilotam Okafor '27, of Little Elm, Texas

• Ellie Pulse '27, of Sioux Falls

• Abigail Smith '27, of Sioux Falls

• Lydia Valenzuela-Rylaarsdam '27, of Chandler, Minnesota

• Yabesera Wurgessa '27, of Watertown, South Dakota