Racquets for a Reason - 2025 Gala

Thank You for Your Generous Support of Racquets for a Reason – 2025 Gala
A festive Gala evening of reception, dinner, entertainment, auction, and awards. Proceeds from the evening will directly benefit the tens of thousands of children and families throughout Texas
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A festive Gala evening of reception, dinner, entertainment, auction, and awards, the gala honored Dalia, Nadia, and Shiv Khera, co-founders of “Tennis for Tourette’s.”
 
Chairman Jon Stevall, emcee Dave Scallan, speakers Joseph Jankovic, M.D., Shiv Khera, and Felix Linsenmeier, as well as performer Brandon Torp, created an informative and touching event. 
 
Our thanks to them, our attendees, our sponsors, and our donors.
 
Did you have trouble accessing our QR code at the event?  Or were you unable to attend? YOU CAN STILL MAKE TAX-DEDUCTIBLE DONATION at the DONATE button below or by clicking here.
 
You can also see PHOTOS from the evening.  Click below and sign in with your email.  You can order any copies you wish directly from Alexanders. https://www.enjoyphotos.com/Gallery/Login.aspx?GUID=95e95584-cba4-4faf-97a8-a2112105d1bf

Jonathan Stenvall

Our Chairman this year is Jonathan Stenvall. Jonathan is the executive producer and co-founder of the multi-media outlet “The Backstage Experience.”  He was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at the age of 11 and has never let that hold him back. 

More About Jon

Jon helps us honor three extraordinary siblings from the Tennis for Tourette's Organization

With a passion for tennis and a penchant for helping their community, the Khera siblings embarked on a journey to raise funds and awareness, as well as to create a space for children with Tourette’s to share their fondness for the sport.   They conceived “Tennis for Tourette’s,” the very first non-profit established by young adults anywhere in the U.S. – to support children with Tourette’s syndrome in Texas. 

Visit the Tennis for Tourette's Website

Dalia Khera

Dalia attends Wellesley College (’27) and plays for the Wellesley Women’s tennis team.

About Dalia

Nadia Khera

Nadia attends Tufts University (’28) and plays for the Tufts Women’s tennis team.
About Nadia

Shiv Khera

Shiv attends St. John’s School (’26) in Houston and is co-captain for the Boys Varsity tennis team.
About Shiv

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Did you have trouble accessing our QR code at the event?  Or were you unable to attend? YOU CAN STILL MAKE TAX-DEDUCTIBLE DONATION at the DONATE button below or by clicking here.
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About Tourette’s Syndrome

Tourette’s syndrome is a neurobehavioral (brain-based) movement disorder characterized by motor and vocal tics. Beginning in childhood, it causes those affected to make movements and noises they cannot control. Additionally, many with T.S. also have associated disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder and/or learning problems. Although medication may help control the symptoms, as of yet there is no cure. Tourette Association of America – Texas Chapter, one of the largest Tourette Association of America Chapters in the country, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We raise funds to directly assist Texas area families and children in crisis, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Tourette Texas Mission Statement
Tourette Association of America – Texas Chapter supports the medical, educational and social needs of Texans with Tourette’s syndrome and their families. Our programs and services include professional counseling; a unique Medical Assistance Program; an annual children’s Camp du Ballon Rouge weekend; educational programs and In-Service presentations; scholarships and direct client services; Support Groups; Youth Ambassador Program; and family events and activities, all of which are free of charge to our families.

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Jonathan Stenvall

Jonathan Stenvall is the executive producer and co-founder of the multi-media outlet “The Backstage Experience.”

He was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at the age of 11 and has never let that hold him back.

After graduating with a degree in Global Energy Management and Finance from the University of Houston, Jonathan had the opportunity to launch “The Backstage Experience” on FOX Television.

His goal was simple. To change the way entertainment news is shared with the world by focusing more on the art and message of the individuals themselves, rather than the tabloid gossip that had become mainstream.

What started off as a two-man operation in 2011 quickly grew into a team of multi-media specialists who handle the workload of promoting over 230 film & TV series over a single year.

His interviews and entertainment coverage are broadcast across the country on FOX Television, Nexstar, and iHeartMedia stations.

Jonathan’s 13-year media career has afforded him the opportunity to travel the world and work with the biggest names in Hollywood including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Oprah Winfrey, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Tyler Perry.

When Jonathan is not working you can catch him training for mountaineering expeditions, flying aerobatic stunt planes, setting records in model rocketry, and advocating for Tourette Syndrome Awareness.

Dalia

Dalia Khera attends Wellesley College (’27) and is a recruited player for the Wellesley Woman’s tennis team. She is majoring in history while completing pre-medical requirements with the aspiration of pursuing a career in medicine. As co-captain of the Wellesley Women’s tennis team, Dalia has demonstrated her leadership and commitment to academics, earning honors such as the 2024 ITA Scholar Athlete and the 2024 NEWMAC All-Sportsmanship award. Passionate about making a difference, she is dedicated to working with underserved populations and actively engages with her community to create positive change. Dalia enjoys utilizing her tennis skills to support individuals in need, embodying her belief in the power of sport to foster connection and empowerment.

Nadia

Nadia Khera attends Tufts University (’28) and is a recruited player for the Tufts Women’s tennis team. She plans to study pre-medical courses, pursuing a career in medicine eventually, while bringing her competitive spirit and leadership skills from her role as co-captain of her varsity high school tennis team to the Tufts Women’s tennis team. Nadia has been honored in the past with the St. John’s School Breakout Athlete of the Year, the Southwest Preparatory Conference All Zone Player, and the All-Southwest
Preparatory Conference Award, recognizing her dedication and achievements in the sport. Committed to making a positive impact, she aims to use her tennis skills to contribute to her community and inspire others through her passion for both sports and service.

Shiv

Shiv Khera attends St. John’s School (’26) in Houston and has been an avid tennis player since the age of six. Currently serving as co-captain of the St. John’s Boys varsity tennis team, Shiv demonstrates leadership and dedication both on and off the court. He is actively involved in multiple community projects that leverage his passion for tennis to make a positive impact. Through his initiatives, Shiv aims to inspire others and promote values of teamwork, perseverance, and service, to make a difference in the community at large.

2025 Racquets for a Reason Gala Attendees

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