**Proposal Amidst Kangaroos: A Touching Engagement at San Antonio Zoo**
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A unique engagement took place at the San Antonio Zoo on June 28, where Jordan Hudgins, 22, proposed to his girlfriend, Kalee Rush, 24, in the park’s Kangaroo Krossing. The surprise proposal was particularly meaningful for the couple, as their college mascot is a kangaroo, and they share a mutual passion for visiting zoos.
The zoo’s official social media channels shared the delightful news about two weeks later, on July 10. “A roo-mantic moment at Kangaroo Krossing!” they posted, accompanied by photos of the couple at the immersive habitat, designed for visitors to get close to the red kangaroos.
In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE, Hudgins revealed the thought process leading to the proposal. The couple has a deep-rooted love for zoos and make it a point to visit them in every new city they explore. This fondness, along with the timing—just after their recent graduation—made the San Antonio Zoo an ideal setting for such a significant moment.
Hudgins expressed the importance of the surprise element in the proposal, acknowledging that Kalee is quick to uncover his plans. “Kalee prides herself on being a sleuth,” he observed, emphasising how crucial it was for him to keep the proposal under wraps. He was determined to make it a memorable experience for her, leading him to the zoo, a place resonant with their relationship.
In an ambitious effort, Hudgins reached out to nearly all zoos, wildlife reserves, and safari parks in Texas to discuss his proposal idea. To his delight, many responded positively. Ultimately, he chose the San Antonio Zoo, as the event manager, Jessica Perez, was keen to assist and provided him with various creative options to make the moment special.
Reflecting on their romance, Hudgins chose to propose near the kangaroos for a specific reason. Their relationship began at Austin College, where Rush was a mentor to Hudgins during his freshman year. The two bonded over shared interests, notably their commitment to pre-med studies and athletic pursuits. Their relationship blossomed quickly, officially starting on December 19, 2022, just after classes ended.
Once the proposal location was confirmed, Hudgins concocted a plan to take Rush on a trip to San Antonio, framing it as a chance to visit another zoo. Arriving right as it opened, Hudgins crafted a believable narrative about beating the heat, all while a zoo staff member awaited their arrival for a “free kangaroo experience.”
As they approached their proposal spot, Hudgins directed Rush to a sign hanging from a tree that read, “Will You Marry Me?” The surrounding kangaroos were lively and friendly, contributing to the magical atmosphere. All of Hudgins’s nerves melted away as he finally asked the question he had rehearsed countless times.
Rush described the moment as “absolutely perfect,” crediting both Hudgins and the zoo for the thoughtful coordination of what she believed to be a simple encounter for zookeeper training. It was only when she turned around and saw the proposal sign that it became apparent what was truly happening. She was so stunned that she found herself hyperventilating in shock.
Following the proposal, the couple celebrated with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries before sharing the news with their families. They spent the rest of the day at the zoo, relishing the joy of their engagement. As a nostalgic gesture, they revisited the Kangaroo Krossing to soak in the significance of their moment.
“Our story began with us as Roos at Austin College; it seems fitting that our next chapter started there as well!” Rush remarked, encapsulating the essence of their journey together. Hudgins also shared his awe at the day’s events, noting a unique memento—a hand-painted piece by one of the kangaroos arranged by the zoo, which added a poignant touch to their already perfect day.
Looking ahead, the couple is excited to begin planning their wedding, aiming for a date next spring. “We’ve thoroughly enjoyed sharing our proposal story with friends, family, and especially within the Austin College community,” Rush stated. Both expressed their gratitude towards the San Antonio Zoo for their role in making the proposal an extraordinary experience.
In a statement, San Antonio Zoo officials highlighted their commitment to creating memorable experiences for the community. “We take pride in being part of someone’s story—whether it’s an engagement, birthday, or wedding,” they noted, reinforcing their mission to provide special spaces for celebrating life’s significant moments surrounded by wildlife and conservation efforts.
For those interested in hosting events, further information is available through the San Antonio Zoo’s event planning resources.