What’s In Your Bag Donna Tuttle?

A Bag Lady with a Purpose

By Lainey Berkus  |  Photography by David Teran

Over seven decades ago, an ambitious visionary named Harmon Dobson created the iconic Whataburger brand—a burger so big and delicious, you had to hold it with two hands, and it could only be described with one phrase: “What a burger!” Since opening the first Corpus Christi location in 1950, Whataburger has grown to over 1,080 locations across 17 states, generating $4 billion in annual revenue and employing 51,000 family members. Known for its orange-and-white A-frame design, Whataburger continues to expand its menu and community efforts, helping to shape the future of education and support local neighborhoods.

Meet Donna Tuttle, the Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Whataburger. She plays a pivotal role in shaping the brand’s identity. Based in San Antonio, Donna oversees the company’s marketing initiatives, including advertising, consumer insights, social media, public relations, internal communications, marketing menu strategy and community engagement. This year, she is helping the brand celebrate its 75th anniversary.

Burgers With Purpose:

Her passion for Whataburger’s impact extends far beyond burgers. The Whataburger Feeding Student Success Scholarship Program is one of the company’s proudest projects, offering $600,000 in scholarships for eligible students across the Whataburger footprint in the 2024-2025 academic year. To date, the brand has given nearly $2 million in scholarships. The 2025-2026 scholarship application process was open from January 1st through February 14th, 2025.

When I asked Donna to share a peek inside her Whataburger “bag,” she had plenty of delicious answers. With more than 45 menu items to choose from, it’s no surprise Donna’s taste buds have been on quite the adventure since joining Whataburger in 2017.

Donna’s breakfast favorite is the Breakfast on a Bun (BOB). “The BOB Ranchero is something of a Whataburger insider’s menu item with jalapeño slices fried right into a fresh egg, paired with sausage and melted cheese and topped with our picante sauce, all nestled into our fresh bun. We have regular BOBs without the jalapeño and picante, but I like a little spice to the start of my day.”

When the day shifts into lunch or dinner, Donna typically goes for the #8 Whataburger double meat Jr. with cheese, fries, spicy ketchup and an unsweetened tea, which she recommends to anyone looking for a truly authentic Whataburger experience. “Our beef and melty cheese pairs perfectly with the fresh, crisp vegetables so you get that perfect combination of hot and steamy with a crunch. Our grill masters only start cooking once you order.”

Dessert is in her bag too. Donna has a soft spot for the creamy shakes and flavored iced coffees.

Simply put, morning, noon or night, Donna’s bag is absolutely delicious!

I now find myself very hungry. Guess where I’m headed!

Donnas Tips for First-Timers

Donna suggests starting with the Patty Melt, two 5-inch beef patties, two slices of Monterey Jack Cheese, grilled onions and Whataburger’s creamy pepper sauce on golden Texas toast. “It is true comfort food, an indulgence that truly fills your belly and your heart.

“Don’t be afraid to be creative. We have Day Dot stickers for your burger that say ‘jalapeño,’ ‘avocado,’ ‘no onion,’ and more. That is how our customers know the burger is uniquely their order. You can add extra bacon or avocado or replace the mustard with one of the signature sauces, toast the buns on both sides and even have it cut in half.

You can order ahead and pick up your meal to go or order your favorites delivered to your front door.

Download the Whataburger app to earn rewards and loyalty points, which you can redeem for free food, fun experiences, and special swag.”