Theriault Returns to her Roots; Opens New Dunkin' Donuts in Easley

Mooresville, N.C. (April 19, 2008) - Michelle Theriault made two appearances last week, opening a new Dunkin' Donuts in Easley, S.C. and speaking to students at Alpharetta High School in Alpharetta, Ga. The 22-year-old drives the No. 1 Dunkin' Donuts entry in the NASCAR All American Series at Greenville-Pickens Speedway and attended high school in Alpharetta.

            On April 16, Theriault and several Dunkin' Donut representatives opened a new location at 5308 Calhoun Memorial Highway in Easley. A large group of fans came out for the event

            " I look forward to growing our partnership with Dunkin' Donuts," said Theriault. "They are an awesome company to work with. With more than 500 new locations scheduled to open in many of the largest racing markets, its expansion plan fits perfectly with motorsports."

            On April 17, Theriault returned to Alpharetta to speak to students at Alpharetta High School about her racing career. Many students were surprised to learn that Theriault, a female race car driver, attended high school in the area.

            "I attended Milton High School, but a couple years after I graduated it closed and two new schools were built, "said Theriault "One kept the Milton name and the other became Alpharetta High School.

            "I spoke to 21 guys in the gifted program, which was a class solely based on NASCAR. The teacher, Jane Macallister, was my teacher in high school. The boys had no idea that a female race car driver was coming to visit so they were pretty surprised when I walked in with a helmet and race suit. 

            "I told them a brief history of my career and answered their many questions," added Theriault. "I was very impressed with what Ms. Macallister had taught them. They were very knowledgeable."

            After her presentation, Theriault took the class outside for one more surprise.

             "I had my Dunkin Donuts car in the parking lot," continued Theriault. "I started it up and let everyone hear the roar of the engine. I even gave them a burn out. It was an awesome day. I hope that my appearance showed all of them that they too can follow their dream and be successful in life."

            Theriault is a seasoned racer and has competed in the NASCAR Camping World Series, ARCA RE/MAX Series and USAR Hooters Pro Cup Series. Later this week, she is expected to make a major announcement.

            "I received a wonderful reception at both events," said Theriault. "Appearances like these pump me up and remind me that my racing touches a lot of people. It's very humbling."