Conner Budge CONNER BUDGE

Conner was the definition of a great person and an even greater friend. His creativity and kindness were sources of positivity for everyone in his circle. He had the best sense of humor, always knowing how to make people smile and laugh. The brothers of Sigma Phi Epsilon are grateful to have known him and will forever cherish our friendship and brotherly bond with him. Conner was a light in the lives of everyone who knew him, and his memory and spirit will live on forever in our hearts.

— Brothers of Sigma Phi Epsilon

You were so excited when you were accepted into Pepperdine. As a Creative Writing major, you had hopes, dreams and ideas for your future. Though it is bittersweet, you have the honor of being awarded the first Pepperdine Posthumous degree, as a recognition of your academic accomplishments. As your classmates look on to their next chapter in their lives, you have completed your book. Your story had a beautiful beginning. You were so happy. Even then, you loved butterflies. You loved bugs and turtles, Harry Potter and mermaids. You were full of spunk and spirit, you were fierce and fearless! The middle chapters of your life brought introspection, the building of character, and fighting for those in need. You experienced tragedies and triumphs with the true strength of a heroine. In the final chapters, you developed your own style and sense of fashion. You shared your quiet grace, kindness and compassion. You touched and inspired so many lives. Your story will not be forgotten.

It is time to let go of my dreams for you and accept the dream you have for me, to believe in your favorite verse that you gifted me. Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you”, declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you, and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Daughters are a gift from God. But they are not for us to keep. They are there for us to love, guide and teach and then let go. I know that He had His own plans for her. My precious Butterfly, I love you! Spread your wings and be free. — Mom everyone says “happiness is a butterfly” but that’s not true a butterfly is much more than happiness a butterfly is a friend a butterfly is laughter a butterfly is love a butterfly is an angel’s kiss everyone that knew you would agree that a butterfly is much more

— Sara Mummert

Autumn there is so much I wish I could say in this tribute, I love you and think about you everyday of my life. You were the greatest friend I could have ever asked for. You made me understand so much about myself and made me grow. I learned so much from you in just the short amount of time and your face and memory I will carry with me forever. I love you my butterfly, see you in my dreams.

— Justin Selva