Samuel Syrus (right of picture), a senior at Iowa State University, and Bryan Shanks, age 29 (left of picture), are both active members of the Iowa State Best Buddies chapter. Samuel has been involved with Best Buddies and Special Olympics since the 5th grade. He served as a Buddy Match Coordinator in middle school and participated in Unified Sports through Special Olympics Indiana and the IHSAA during high school. When he began college, Samuel knew he wanted to continue fostering lifelong friendships and making an impact.

Bryan shared that his motivation for joining Best Buddies was simple: he enjoys going out to restaurants with his buddy and loved when Samuel attended his track and basketball games. Their friendship has flourished through these shared experiences.

Among their proudest moments together, Bryan made it to the finals in his division at the Special Olympics basketball tournament and was also a finalist in several events at the Special Olympics track and field regional meet. Samuel was there to cheer him on during both milestones.

“I will never forget how happy these moments were,” Samuel said.

One of their most unforgettable memories came during a dinner outing. They went to one of Bryan’s favorite spots—Buffalo Wild Wings. When it came time to order, Bryan confidently asked for 10 blazing wings. Samuel was stunned at his bravery, but Bryan proudly explained his love for spicy food. When the wings arrived, Bryan devoured all 10 without flinching and even joked that he wished they were spicier.

“This was such a funny and memorable moment for us that we still talk about to this day,” Samuel shared.

Samuel says that being part of Best Buddies has given him the opportunity to develop a lifelong friendship with someone who shares his passions.

“Bryan has helped me find out that I like British food, showed me some good competition in mini-golf, and given me someone to talk about the science behind weather with. My friendship with Bryan has enriched my life in so many ways.”

Samuel’s message to the community about the power of inclusion and friendship is a reminder of what makes Best Buddies so special:

“Being a friend to someone is one of the best things you can do. Having someone to share experiences and interests with makes life so much more interesting and enriching. Not only do you get to be in someone’s corner, but you also get someone in your corner too.”