This West Virginia McDonald’s Owner is Helping Students Achieve Their College Dreams

For the past seven years, West Virginia McDonald’s Owner/Operator John Ebert Jr. has been making a significant impact in his community by helping more than 3,000 high school juniors and seniors prepare for the ACT college admissions test.

John’s mission is clear: to equip students with the skills and confidence they need to achieve high ACT scores—scores that can open the door to college admissions and unlock thousands of dollars in scholarships.

Recognizing that many students in West Virginia struggle with the Math section of the ACT, John designed a specialized test prep course that focuses on the types of math problems students are likely to encounter. By improving their performance in Math, students can boost their overall ACT scores, increasing their chances of college acceptance and scholarship opportunities.

The ACT is offered about six times a year, and in the days leading up to each test, John collaborates with local teachers to host a free 3-hour prep course. The program is open to students across West Virginia, and those who work at John’s McDonald’s restaurants are even paid to participate in the course.

In 2020, these sessions transitioned to a virtual format, but John is thrilled to be meeting with students in person once again.

John’s dedication to supporting students extends far beyond the classroom. His commitment to helping young people achieve their college dreams is a testament to his passion for making a difference both inside and outside his restaurants.

We’re proud to recognize John Ebert Jr. for his incredible contributions to his community and his unwavering support for the next generation of leaders.