Meet Three of Our 2024-2025 Culver’s FFA Ambassadors
Students going the extra mile to make sure the future of agriculture stays bright
Earlier this year, we launched our first-ever Culver’s FFA Ambassador Program as a way to recognize FFA members going above and beyond in their communities through our Thank You Farmers® Project. As proud partners of FFA for over 10 years, we’re always looking for ways to support our future agricultural leaders – and this program allows us to do just that!
We asked our guests to nominate an FFA member in their lives they feel deserves to become one of our first-ever ambassadors, and the response was just another example of how many FFA members are actively working to keep the future of agriculture bright. We selected 15 ambassadors for the 2024-2025 season, and they each have the opportunity to participate in events and educational experiences as part of the program. Join us as we get to know three of these ambassadors – Sam M., Carmela R. and Olivia J.!
Sam M. – DeForest, WI
Sam M. and the DeForest FFA chapter go way back, literally. His grandfather was a member of the chapter shortly after it was founded, and his dad, uncle and siblings were also involved in the organization prior to him joining five years ago. Over the years, not only has FFA been a point of connection for him and his family, but it has also given him the opportunity to explore his passion for agriculture and meet new friends with similar interests.
The ambassador program is another way for Sam to bring that passion to life: “My favorite part about being a Culver’s Ambassador is being able to promote something that I truly love,” said Sam. “Everyone knows that Culver’s is my favorite restaurant not only because the food is amazing, but they support farmers and agriculturalists, and that shows me that they are a company that knows the value of agriculture and FFA.”
Following his high school graduation, Sam plans to attend the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he will study agronomy, the science of soil management and crop production. With this education under his belt, he plans to pursue a career helping cultivate the best crop output to feed the growing world population.
When Sam visits his local Culver’s, his go-to order is a Culver's® Bacon Deluxe, Culver’s Signature Root Beer and a Concrete Mixer®.
Carmela R. – Heritage, NC
After a class schedule mix-up presented her with the opportunity, Carmela R. has been an active member of the Heritage, North Carolina, FFA chapter for the past two years. From attending the FFA National Convention to being selected as one of this year’s Culver’s FFA Ambassadors, Carmela represents her chapter and Culver’s with her passion for the agricultural industry.
“Being a Culver’s FFA Ambassador gives me the opportunity to connect with others and help spark curiosity about agriculture and its importance to our world,” Carmela shared.
Carmela pairs her passion for agriculture with her love for learning by aspiring to become an agricultural educator. Helping young people to uncover more about the world of agriculture will allow Carmela to shape young leaders in the same way FFA has shaped her throughout her years of membership, opening the same doors for her future students that FFA opened for her.
When she’s in the mood for a salty snack, Carmela goes for Wisconsin Cheese Curds from Culver’s. When she’s craving something sweet, she goes for a Concrete Mixer® with her favorite mix-ins.
Olivia J. – Rockwall, TX
Olivia J. became a member of FFA through her involvement in the Veterinary Technician program at her high school in Rockwall, Texas. Her love for animals made FFA the perfect place for her to continue working toward her lifelong dream of becoming a vet. As a dedicated member of FFA, Olivia has developed a deep appreciation for farmers and hopes to continue sharing that appreciation as a Culver’s FFA Ambassador.
“My favorite thing about being a Culver's FFA Ambassador is being able to help bring awareness of the Rockwall FFA chapter to our community,” Olivia explained.
With her sights set on continuing to study veterinary medicine, Olivia has been preparing herself for this role throughout her time in FFA. Participating in stock shows and caring for small animals in petting zoos are just a few of those key moments of preparation that she’s had as a member so far. She also feels deeply inspired by her teachers, many of whom double as FFA advisors.
“My vet program teachers also serve as advisors for FFA, so I have a wealth of experience and knowledge to lean into, and I take the opportunity very seriously,” explained Olivia.
Olivia and Carmela have their favorite menu item at Culver’s in common – Wisconsin Cheese Curds!
We are happy to welcome Sam, Carmela, Olivia and the 12 other selected students to the 2024-2025 Culver’s FFA Ambassador team, and we’re excited to see all that they accomplish as ambassadors and as future agricultural leaders! For more information on how Culver’s is committed to supporting agriculture and its current and future leaders, check out our Thank You Farmers Project.