Madison and Connor both signed up for Kaleo 2019, unknowingly making the decision that would change their lives forever - in more ways than one. It was there in Destin, Florida that they not only met each other, but also came to know Jesus. They learned that every person was separated from God because of sin, but Jesus loves us so much that he chose to take on the punishment for our sin. Now all we have to do to live in His love is to accept His free gift, and enter into lifelong relationship with Him. This was also where Connor and Madison met for the first time. He saw her from across the room at a Stumo night, and told his best friends that she was the most beautiful girl he had ever seen; he just HAD to find out who she was. Back on campus, Connor asked Madison to Pike's Semiformal, Riverboat, and a few months later they caught up over coffee. Afterwards, Connor called Madison to ask her on their first official date and it was planned! Until... the virus sent both of them home the day before the date was scheduled. They didn't get the chance to talk again until Kaleo 2020. They saw each other around but were both focused on leading their groups and it wasn't until the very last night of Kaleo 2020 that Connor asked Madison to go on a walk down the beach. During the walk, they finally rescheduled the elusive date for the week they got back to Fayetteville! An ice cream date, rock climbing date, and a farmer's market date later, Connor popped the first question, and Madison became his girlfriend! Just short of a year later, Connor popped the second question, and they were engaged! And their story continues January 9th, 2022!

" If you know of Connor, you know of his character. That was the first thing that I admired. His integrity is evident to anyone who has spent any measure of time around him - He is the one to choose what is right over what is easy, regardless of consequence. He consciously puts the feelings + needs + well-being of others before his own. He is dependable, trustworthy, steady; no one who has relied on him has ever been disappointed. He is as kind as he is good. If you know him, you know that he is slow to speak, quick to listen. He walks slowly through the crowds, looking for opportunities to serve others. He loves unconditionally. He is a natural encourager. His faith in Christ and commitment to His word have inspired and developed my own faith. I stand today closer to Jesus & more of who I am because of being loved by Connor " -Madison

"When thinking about what stands out most to me about Madison, the thing that first comes to mind is her consistent empathy towards me and everyone else. She lives with a desire to be united with others in all walks of life. Her desire to listen and to love teaches me what it's like to 'love your neighbor.' She has a smile that lights up a room and a care for others that brings joy to this world. I knew she was the one from the moment I laid eyes on her. She has a beauty that radiates from within; the kind that you can not miss. She is kind, disciplined, smart, servant-hearted, and most importantly, has an infectious love for Jesus. Madison is God's greatest gift to my life and my best friend. She was the prettiest girl I had ever seen when I first saw her, and now the more I get to know her, the more beautiful she gets. In short, I am a lucky guy." -Connor