On June 25th, the Drury community lost a brilliant student, tremendous athlete and friend to many.

Caroline Conrad, sophomore, was heavily involved in campus life and was considered a leader by many students, staff and faculty. Caroline was a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. She participated in the Student Union Board and Drury Ambassadors as well as played on the Drury women’s bowling team.

Larry Hughes, the bowling coach at Drury University, met and formed a bond with Caroline through the sport. He admired her determination as an athlete and her always-positive attitude.

“Caroline was the definition of a student-athlete. She understood how to make the most of the situation and was a true inspiration and joy to be around,” said Hughes.

Friends remember Caroline’s selflessness, spirit

Conrad was a Warren White scholar, celebrated bowler, and cherished friend. Photo via Drury Newsroom.

One person who knew Caroline very well since arriving at Drury was her Zeta Tau Alpha “Big,” Elizabeth Menne.

“Caroline was just… Caroline. There’s honestly no better way to describe it than that, and I’m certain that anyone that knew her would know exactly what I’m talking about. She was so unique in so many ways and refused to be anything but herself. She was good at everything she did, whether that was athletics, art, academics, line dancing, or simply being a friend. Caroline was incredibly selfless and would always drop anything in order to help someone in need,” said Menne.

Caroline always seemed to leave a lasting impression on everyone she met. She was a friend to anyone and everyone. The ones close to her know that best.

“Caroline taught me how to live unapologetically. She challenged me every day and our relationship taught me so much about myself. She taught me what true friendship really is, and the value of always having someone that has your back, in good times and bad,” said Menne.

Caroline’s life is being celebrated by family, close friends, teammates and the Drury community. Her passion continues to inspire many.

“If there’s anything that I know Caroline would want me to communicate with

“She taught me what true friendship really is.” Conrad, left, and Menne, right.

everyone, I think it would simply be that all she’s ever wanted is for everyone to be happy. Caroline cared so much about so many people and I think it’s important that everyone knows just how much of an impact this Drury community made on her, especially since she sometimes struggled to vocalize those feelings to everyone,” said Menne.

In the words of Caroline Conrad herself, “Have fun, be safe.”

Article written by Kate Bequette.