Eckrich's Generous $600,000 Donation to Support Teachers at National Championship

Eckrich Donates $600,000 to Extra Yard for Teachers

Eckrich®, the official Smoked Sausage and Deli Meat Sponsor of the College Football Playoff (CFP), showcased its long-standing commitment to supporting educators by donating an impressive $600,000 to the Extra Yard for Teachers initiative during the College Football Playoff National Championship game held in Atlanta.

On January 21, 2025, ESPN sports journalist Marty Smith took the field at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium to participate in the Eckrich® $1 Million Challenge for Teachers. Smith successfully made a crucial ten-yard throw, triggering the donation during the highly anticipated matchup between Notre Dame and Ohio State. This remarkable event underscored Eckrich®'s dedication to empowering teachers and enhancing educational opportunities across the country.

A Legacy of Support

Since 2018, Eckrich has partnered with the CFP Foundation's Extra Yard for Teachers, contributing over $3 million towards this noble cause. The funds have supported numerous educators, providing resources that pave the way for enhanced student learning experiences. Each season, the partnership has engaged college football fans, encouraging them to nominate outstanding teachers from their communities. Selected educators had the chance to perform a throwing challenge during local college games, aiming to win funding for their schools.

Although no one succeeded in making a winning throw this season, Eckrich® did not forget to honor all participating educators. Each of them received $2,500 to support their respective schools, alongside $500 worth of groceries for local retailers connected with those teachers, amassing a total of $15,000 in donations and $3,000 in groceries.

Voices of Support

Marty Smith expressed his enthusiasm for the challenge, stating, “Partnering with Eckrich® again this year to help raise funds for the College Football Playoff Foundation and the incredible teachers nationwide is an honor.” He emphasized the challenge as a meaningful way to advocate for the educators helping shape future generations.

Britton Banowsky, Executive Director of the CFP Foundation, echoed this sentiment. “The Eckrich® $1 Million Challenge for Teachers is such an impactful initiative, and I am proud of this continued partnership to support teachers,” he noted, highlighting the necessity of funding classroom resources and recognizing hardworking educators nationwide.

Steve France, President of Packaged Meats for Smithfield Foods, remarked on the overarching importance of educators in fostering community growth. “Teachers play an instrumental role in our communities, so to donate $3 million since the partnership began is extremely special to the Eckrich® brand,” he stated with pride.

Honoring Excellence

In a further celebration of educational excellence, Eckrich awarded Karen Orta-Mena, a math teacher from Texas, as the Eckrich® Teacher of the Year. As part of her recognition, she received a unique experience at the 2025 CFP National Championship weekend, along with $5,000 to fund her classroom projects—testament to Eckrich’s intent to uplift the teaching profession.

For further details about the Eckrich® $1 Million Challenge for Teachers and the Eckrich® National Teacher of the Year program, you can visit Eckrich.com/teachers.

About Eckrich

Eckrich has a rich heritage dating back to 1894 when it began in a modest meat market in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Since its inception, Eckrich has earned recognition as a premium deli and meat brand, renowned for its exceptional taste and high-quality craftsmanship. To learn more about the company, visit Eckrich.com and follow them on social media platforms.

About the CFP Foundation

The College Football Playoff Foundation, a non-profit organization specializing in community engagement, collaborates with various institutions to improve educator resources and student outcomes. Their vision aims at supporting PK-12 education while elevating the teaching profession through essential programs.