Mt. Spokane’s McKernan shows leadership: Sledding accident changed her life, but nothing can stop her

In 2015, what had promised to be a fun-filled, snowy New Year’s Eve outing forever changed Alli McKernan’s world.

“I was sledding in Newport, Washington, and hit a tree,” she said.

Her neck was broken, and the spinal injury resulted in paralysis from the neck down.

“I was 12, and my life changed in every way I can think of. I was always into sports, but that was taken away in a manner of seconds,” McKernan said.

She paused for a moment.

“But I think I definitely came out on top.”

With hard work and countless hours of intense physical therapy, McKernan has regained some movement in her upper body, but she still uses a power wheelchair.

Her resilience, optimism and positive attitude make her stand out among her peers at Mt. Spokane High School.

“Alli is happiness and sunshine personified,” counselor Drew Wendle said.

And more than that – she embodies the qualities of initiative and leadership that staff and fellow students admire.

“Whenever we talk about leadership, Alli’s name is mentioned. She’s very well respected as a student and as a young lady,” Wendle said. “She leads by example – she shows up. She’s a fixture at all our choir, theater and athletic activities. I coach volleyball, and I know when varsity volleyball starts, she’ll be there, front and center. She’s a very present person.”

McKernan led by title as well, when she was elected ASB president.

“I’m super into leadership,” she said. “I felt like this was a good way to involve myself in school, and I like being involved. My goal going into it was to make sure everyone felt heard and accepted. “

She also wants to destigmatize disabilities of every kind.

“I want to show people by just being myself that having a disability doesn’t make you any less, and you shouldn’t be seen as any less,” McKernan said.

Even with her leadership responsibilities and constant presence at school functions, McKernan, a member of the National Honor Society, maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA throughout high school.

“School is really important to me,” she said. “I didn’t let my accident change that about me.”

She took all four years of the Project Lead the Way engineering course, and found another passion.

“The teachers in the engineering program really inspired me,” she said.

Though no slouch at math and science, she really enjoys the design aspect of engineering.

“I feel like I can express my creativity,” McKernan said.

In the fall, she’ll be attending Gonzaga University, where she plans to major in engineering management.

Wendle has no doubt she’ll do well.

“Whatever she’s interested in, she will excel at and improve it,” he said.

He has no doubt that she’ll lead the way while still being true to herself.

“I made it my goal to put myself out there and show people I’m comfortable in my own skin,” McKernan said. “I think the best way to get people to accept you is to show them that you accept yourself.”