We first met during our freshman year at Oregon State University through the Newman Center Catholic Community, where we were both involved in Venture, a program for students reconnecting with their Catholic faith. What started as casual group hangouts after meetings soon turned into late-night McDonald’s runs with a close friend, Ryan. It was during this time that we began to get to know each other better. After one Venture meeting, Endya shared that she liked me—I was surprised at first, but within a few days, we went on our first dates, and it quickly felt natural. On May 27, 2021, I asked her to be my girlfriend, and she said yes. From then on, we spent the rest of college growing closer and sharing countless memories.

On September 22, 2024, I proposed to Endya at the Newman Center—the very place where we first met and where our story began. She said yes, and we are now overjoyed to be planning our wedding on July 11, 2026. We are so excited for this next chapter and look forward to continuing to grow together in love and faith.

- JP