Keynote Speakers

D.R.E.A.M.S. Foundation of Acadiana Team

Donielle Watkins

Donielle is the Co-Director of the D.R.E.A.M.S. Foundation of Acadiana along with her husband Brian Watkins. Donielle and Brian founded D.R.E.A.M.S. in 2008, because their son and other kids with special needs in the community wanted to participate in activities and sports. They never imagined that it would flourish into the successful foundation it is today. D.R.E.A.M.S. has brought together many families that identify with each other and has changed many lives for the better. “I am blessed that God chose us to lead this organization.” – Donielle

Brian Watkins

After the birth of their son Logan, who was born with Spina Bifida, Brian and Donielle’s lives were changed forever. They decided to create a nonprofit foundation designed to bring activities and sports programs to the Acadiana area for special needs individuals. After several years of introducing and running various programs, Brian decided to go back to school to become a special education teacher. He has now been teaching since 2010 and is currently teaching at St. Thomas More high school in the Options program. In 2014, he was awarded Teacher of the Year by the Louisiana Governor’s office for special needs. As well as teaching those with special needs in the classroom, he is also involved in the sports and activities throughout the organization! “Each child can learn; we just have to figure out how they learn.” -Brian