Butler University is an amazing place where students, faculty, and staff all have the opportunity to grow and forge their own paths. But their time at Butler is just that, their own. While there are many shared experiences, each Bulldog’s experience is unique to them.

However, there is one constant to all Bulldogs whether you are a Dance student, Chemistry professor, or run a social media account for a dog—Butler Blue.

On April 6, 2024, my friend, mentor, and our Mascot Emeritus, Butler Blue III—aka “Trip”—passed away after a brief illness, surrounded by family. He was 12 years old.

All Butler Blues past and present have proudly represented our campus since 2000. They are a common bond that ties us all together.

Trip did that well. Just like all Butler Bulldogs, Trip was strong, Trip was intelligent, and Trip was a great friend.

Trip was strong both mentally and physically. My Dad, who was lucky to spend a lot of time with Trip, tells the story of when Trip once worked 8 hours straight in Washington, DC on the Big Dawgs Tour. When he got back to the hotel, you would think he would go straight to sleep. (I know I would.) Instead, he continued to cause his signature ruckus around the hotel room.

Mentally, he showed resilience when he tore his CCL in 2016. When I tore mine in 2023, I was able to take the lessons he learned to make my recovery easier.

Trip was remarkably intelligent. Quite often he would use that intelligence to get himself into trouble, but he was always just looking to have a little fun—like the time he learned to move a giant barrier to escape his office and beg his coworkers for their lunches.

Finally, Trip was the definition of a great friend. It was impossible to have a bad day when you were around him. If his goofy grin didn’t light up your face, then he would plop himself onto your lap until it did.

Trip meant a lot to a lot of people. He meant a lot to me, he meant a lot to his family and to mine, and I know he meant a lot to you.

Thank you for everything, Trip. It is an honor to carry on your legacy.