06/15/2026
When we heard John R. Rogers High School graduating senior Nathaniel McDermott’s story, Longhorn Barbecue staff knew we wanted to help his family pull out all the stops to celebrate his success.
The 18-year-old completed four years of ROTC, placed third in districts for wrestling, played three years of football, and volunteered. Administrators awarded him the Golden Ticket for outstanding attendance and grades and nominated him for the Spokane Public Schools Native American Student of Excellence Award. Nathanial graduated with 27 credits instead of the required 24.
His mom, Sierra Wilson, is overwhelmed with pride.
“Getting a kid to the finish line is, I think, every parent's hope and dream,” Sierra said. “And it’s not just that, but also to help them prepare for their goal.”
Nathaniel already lined up all the grants he’ll need to finish Spokane Community College's welding program. It’s little wonder his family can’t wait to celebrate. But then something unexpected happened. His dad couldn’t attend.
But Nathaniel didn’t take the bad news lying down.
“He saw a thing on social media where you send out grad invites to companies to see if they would help you celebrate,” Sierra said. “His thought was, man, wouldn't it be cool if I got Longhorn Barbecue. I was like, dude, this is never going to happen, but go ahead and try.”
Nathaniel fired off a letter to Longhorn and enclosed a graduation announcement. We gladly stepped in to cater his graduation party. Here’s the menu: brisket, zesty pork, potato salad, barbecue beans, rolls, and macaroni and cheese.
“Nathaniel's big thing is he really, really wanted brisket, and Longhorn went out of their way and did brisket for Nathaniel,” explained Sierra.
Thank you, Nathaniel, for letting us share your big day. We hope you love the catered lunch as much as we loved celebrating with you.
