Meet Kenner

Meet Kenner! This outgoing and determined 18-year-old lights up every room he enters. Known for his infectious energy and ability to make people smile in seconds, his high school community calls it “The Kenner Effect.” Whether he’s playing sports, hanging out with friends, or taking on new challenges, Kenner’s passion for life is truly inspiring.

Living with Down syndrome has brought unique challenges, but Kenner refuses to let them hold him back. Too often, people see his disability before they see his abilities, but he’s made it his mission to prove that he’s capable of anything. He’s learned to advocate for himself, break down barriers, and fight for the opportunities he deserves.

Kenner’s Dream is as big as his heart—he wants to walk onto the Gonzaga University Men’s Basketball team. While his journey may look different from others, his determination, spirit, and love for the game drive him forward. His ultimate sports dream is to have a VIP experience with Gonzaga Men’s Basketball, meeting the players, spending time with the team, and seeing them in action up close. The Gonzaga University Collegiate Dream Team can’t wait to help make this Dream come true for Kenner!

Kenner's Dream

Gonzaga Collegiate Dream Team Dreamer, Kenner is every bit of inspiration wrapped in joy and curiosity about the world. Kenner’s first day with the Gonzaga CDT started with a knock at his door and his collegiate Dream team standing outside cheering with excitement. Kenner was presented with his own Ben Gregg jersey, which he was over the moon about since Ben Gregg is his absolute favorite player.

We hopped in the limo, started blaring his favorite music, and enjoyed a toast of sparkling cider with the Gonzaga Collegiate Dream team. We made our way out to Lazermaxx Spokane where Kenner and the team had a blast playing laser tag together. After two rounds of the most competitive laser tag matches, the crew headed to dinner. Here, Kenner was greeted by a group of his friends who were cheering in excitement upon his arrival! After dinner, the group made their way to historical Davenport Hotel for a great night’s sleep.

Dream Day kicked off a delicious breakfast at the hotel before Kenner was picked up by a limo, which took him to campus for a special tour of with the Gonzaga Collegiate Dream Team captains, Chris and Jesse. Kenner loved seeing campus, especially the athletic facilities where he could see all of the Gonzaga Athletics history and accomplishments. He was also able to practice his half court shot, which left him smiling ear to ear! After touring more of the athletic training facilities and meeting student athletes, the crew made their way to the Zag Shop where Kenner was able to go on a shopping spree. Here, Kenner was surprised by Ben Gregg…his favorite Zag! Ben took Kenner on a tour of the Gonzaga Men’s Basketball locker room and introduced him to players like Graham Ike and Michael Ajaye.

After lots of laughs and hugs, the crew made their way to the Gonzaga Women’s Basketball game where the lady Bulldogs defeated LMU. At the end of the game, Kenner was thrilled to be able to meet some of his favorite players.

Then, it was the moment he had been waiting for…Kenner watched the Gonzaga Men’s Basketball team on their home court with the Gonzaga CDT IN THE STUDENT SECTION! The perfect day was topped off with a Zags win over Pepperdine. After the game, Kenner was able to meet even more players as he officially declared “Dream come true!”

Dream Snapshots

Volvo
Thank you to our National Collegiate Dream Team Sponsor, Volvo Construction Equipment, as well as to Living Water Lawn Care for sponsoring the Gonzaga Collegiate Dream Team