Lola Kernell 

Lola Kernell has served as the Advocacy Coordinator for KCDD since November 2023. She is living her dream by working at KCDD. In her role, Kernell leads the advocacy and grassroots initiatives for the statewide organization, including KCDD’s Change Agent Program and KCDD’s Annual Day at the Capitol. She also regularly provides advocacy training sessions for self-advocates, families, and caregivers.

Most recently, Lola led the passage of the Prenatal & Postnatal Diagnosis Information Act (HB 2307), which passed unanimously in both the Kansas House and Senate and was signed by the Governor in the spring of 2025. This law ensures that parents and medical professionals receive accurate, up-to-date information about a child’s disability. Following the bill's passage, Lola is leading a new diverse statewide workgroup to develop and distribute those important materials.

Kernell is also a student at Johnson County Community College (JCCC), studying Communications and French. Outside of her advocacy work, Lola enjoys performing in local theater productions and serves as a lector and altar server at her church.

Lola also works part-time for the Royals and the Chiefs through the Down Syndrome Innovations program. She has also gained valuable work experience with Nautical Manufacturing and Fulfillment as part of the Down Syndrome Innovations ACE program. Lola is a peacemaker, is friendly and outgoing, and loves public speaking and being an advocate for others. She has strong technical and computer skills and brings energy and purpose to her work.