I have been planning trips for students for 35 years! Cruising is my favorite way to travel—only unpack once and enjoy all the food and activities onboard. Exploring all the destinations throughout a cruise is the icing on the cake and learning the cultures of the area is the cherry on top! I believe that travel is an education we can offer to students that they cannot get in the classroom. I want all our student groups to experience all a destination has to offer and encourage them to get out and explore! I love planning everything for the group from start to finish, making the trip as stress-free as possible!

In my free time, I love to treasure hunt—garage sales, antique shops, and outdoor festivals. As an animal lover, I volunteer at our local shelter and give attention to the pets in need. I have a rescue dog named GiGi, who is the love of my life!

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A veterinarian.

What is your favorite mode of transportation and why?

A cruise—you unpack once and wake up in a different port of call every day. It is your home away from home!

Which celebrity, living or dead, would you most like to grab coffee with?

Ricky Gervais.

What was the first concert you ever went to?

Rolling Stones in Stuttgart, Germany.

What movie could you watch over and over again?

Notting Hill with Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant.

Hello, my name is Trudy! My biggest enjoyment every day is providing educational travel opportunities for cheer, dance, and music students. I like to think of myself as someone who provides positive travel experiences and events for students, directors and families. As the Director of Dance Programs for Performing Arts Consultants, I am in a unique position to share my passion with others, obtain knowledge from other professionals, and experience entertainment opportunities that could enrich the lives of all involved.

Working in the student travel industry and traveling and working with students of all ages with many talents has been a huge part of my life. Throughout my childhood, I was fortunate to travel with my family, as a member of a middle and high school music department, and as a college cheerleader. I have realized, as a former event director in cheer and dance programs, my passion starts with relationship building with all those I come in contact with. My goal is to provide well-rounded experiences that inspire students to be the best they can be. My ability to create opportunities and develop the minds of our students makes each day rewarding. My current position allows me to continue working with students and create opportunities for success. Creating an atmosphere where students can learn, experience new destinations, hone their talents, and grow their passion is my true goal.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? 

Do not use the word “no” or be quick to answer “no” until you have asked all the questions and exhausted all opportunities to make it a “yes.” Another piece of advice I was given and use regularly is… everything can be fixed, as long as you make an effort.

If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be?  

To be able to read minds.

What is your favorite musical instrument and why? 

I have two: I love the piano and the saxophone. I was lucky to play both with more experience playing the piano. Being able to play an instrument was a great stress reliever, plus I love how they sound.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? 

I wanted to be a missing children’s investigator. I was lucky to work with a missing children’s agency when I graduated from college: This job led me to working with young adults adjudicated as adults/felons before their 21st birthdays.  And, working for a state agency led me back to my roots, working with dance teams, cheerleaders, and school music departments.

What’s your go-to travel snack?  

When I travel, I like to take assorted nuts, popcorn and/or pretzels. They are easy to put into Ziplock baggies, travel well, and are great for a quick boost when I have not had time to grab a meal.

What is one item you always make sure you pack?

A comfortable pair of shoes.