Our Team
Richard Ruffin
Hi, I’m Richard Ruffin—a sophomore at Bishop Gorman High School and the Founder and President of Culinary Crusaders. I started this teen-run nonprofit after realizing some students in the Las Vegas Valley go into the weekend not knowing if they’ll have enough to eat. When school is out, the meals many teens rely on aren’t there, and that stress can follow you right back into the classroom on Monday.
Culinary Crusaders provides weekend food bags specifically for food-insecure high school students—because teens can get overlooked in the conversation about hunger. Outside of school, I’m happiest staying active—whether that’s on the baseball field, skiing or snowboarding when I get the chance—and I’m also the kind of teen who’ll lock in on a good gaming session after a long day. I’m proud to lead a team that believes no one should have to worry about food in order to focus on being a student, a teammate, and just a kid.
President
Alex Trummer
For a recent school project, I researched food insecurity in the Las Vegas Valley. The level of need surprised me. It appeared that most assistance was addressing small children and the elderly. Culinary Crusaders provides an impactful way of helping my fellow teens.
When I am not studying or volunteering on behalf of CC, you can find me driving for the Bishop Gorman Robotics Team (ranked 3rd in the State of Nevada), spending time with my family, experimenting in the kitchen, presiding over my professional drone business, or earning hours toward a commercial pilot license.
Vice President
My name is Ethan. I'm a sophomore at Bishop Gorman. In my free time, I like to travel, play the drums, play hockey, and read. I work on marketing for Culinary Crusaders. I joined because I like to help others and believe that everyone should have access to nutrition.
Marketing LeadEthan Tavakoli
Hi! I’m Malena Ruffin, a founding member of Culinary Crusaders. I’m excited to be an incoming freshman at Bishop Gorman, and I joined the Crusaders because I really want to get involved right away and give back to my community. I love being part of projects that help others—especially when food can bring people together.
Outside of school, I also love volunteering with The Animal Foundation in Las Vegas, and I’m a huge Stranger Things fan. I’m looking forward to meeting new people, serving my community, and making the most of my freshman year!
Marketing LeadMalena Ruffin
My name is Cade and I’m a Freshman at Coronado High school. As a multi-sport athlete, I know the importance of food and nutrition for the body and mind. I am so fortunate to volunteer with these teens to help provide meals for my peers that may have food insecurities. I would like to see everyone have enough to eat and no excuses to not be the best they can be. This is a great teen led organization and I am proud to be a part of the great things they do.
Member