We’re getting married!

Lauren and Kevin met while getting their masters degrees at Purdue University Calumet. They met for a brief moment at a picnic in September, but they weren't sure if they'd see each other again. Imagine the surprise when in January, they returned to school and ended up in the same class! Lauren decided that she would be Kevin’s lab partner, and the rest, as they say, is history. Kevin asked Lauren out on their first date on Valentine’s Day 2012. He took her out for pizza since he knew that there is no food that she loves better.

Lauren and Kevin have made it a goal to visit all 61 parks in the National Park system. In December of 2018, they visited Key West to see Chrissy, John and Tina dance in Key West Ballet's production of The Nutcracker. While in Key West, they visit Dry Tortugas National Park, about 70 miles west of Key West into the Gulf of Mexico. Upon arriving at the island, Lauren wanted to snorkel, but Kevin insisted upon exploring the island. Once they were on top of Fort Jefferson, Kevin suggested that they have a family take their picture. Lauren didn't want to bother them, but Kevin, again, insisted. Little did Lauren know, but Kevin was about to pop the question. On a remote island, miles from home, Kevin got down on one knee and said, "We've seen seven parks so far, how about we do the rest together." Lauren said "Of course!" They enjoyed the rest of their day trip to the island in engaged bliss.