About Us
Your Group Tour Professionals
Our Mission is to provide well-designed educational and music performance student tours .
We exceed the goals and expectations of our groups. Through our core values of integrity, honesty, attention to details, and personalized customer service our highly skilled travel professionals will create well balanced tours that inspire students to expand their horizons.
Meet the Good News Tour & Travel Team
Our dedicated team takes pride in providing highly personalized service, treating every group like part of our family. With hundreds of trips planned, our family-owned business is experienced in planning unique and memorable student trips.
Corinne Grubar
President and Group Travel Sales Manager, CSTP
Since 1989 I have planned customized educational performance tours exclusively for student groups. My strengths include designing specialized tours that cater to each group’s personality, travel destination(s), education and performance goals, all within your budget parameters.
As “Your Group Tour Professional” I will continue to dedicate my services to planning and delivering memorable tours for your group. I look forward to working with you and providing a unique experience for your group and memories that every student will cherish forever.
Gary Miller
Group Travel Sales Manager
I’m extremely proud of our carefully designed and thoroughly researched itineraries that capture the essence and diversity of each school group. Our groups continually praise the varied flow of our itineraries as well as the selection of fascinating destinations. When I was in grade school, my science teacher explained to us the benefits and educational value of traveling. She said she’s been to every state except one, inspiring me to set a goal to see all 50 states, which is 95% complete.
Melanie Engelking
Executive Tour Coordinator
I studied hotel and restaurant management and hospitality and tourism at the University of Wisconsin Stout. I have enjoyed many years working in the group travel industry and have traveled extensively both domestically and internationally. After several years working with special interest and faith based adult groups traveling internationally, I have returned to my roots working with customized student travel programs throughout the United States. I joined the team at Good News Tour and Travel in 2023, helping to manage the details required for a successful tour experience. I also enjoy travelling with our student groups, helping to ensure things run smoothly on tour as a Group Tour Manager. Additionally, I work in education as a reading tutor and substitute teacher.
Audra Searles
Group Tour Administrator
In the fall of 2024, after over twenty years of educating learners in the Minnesota Public Schools, I decided to embark on a new path with the team at Good News Tour and Travel. I focus on supporting student group travel tours, by working on the behind-the-scenes planning and organization to ensure student group travel is a success.
In high school I received my first taste of group travel via a trip to New York to explore the fashion scene. As a young adult I had opportunities to study abroad in various countries, as well as backpack the eastern coast of Australia. Exploring other places around the world instilled in me the belief that travel enriches education and broadens horizons. I am excited to combine my educational background with my love for travel, helping create adventures that enrich learning for all involved.
Matt Miller
Operations Assistant
My journey in travel began before I could walk, with my first flight setting the stage for a lifelong passion. Growing up in a family where travel was central, I’ve been fortunate to explore diverse destinations such as St. Louis, Boston, Winnipeg, Puerto Rico, and New York City. Alongside my parents, who own and work at Good News Tour and Travel (GNTT), I developed an early love for the industry.
In August 2023, during my freshman year at Century College, I officially joined the GNTT team. I am now pursuing a Business Management degree at Minnesota State University, Mankato (MSU), and continue to work at GNTT during college breaks. Upon graduating, I will transition to a full-time role to further immerse myself in the business and support your group travel needs.
In addition to my role at GNTT, I work as a photographer for the MSU Reporter, our school’s online and print newspaper.
Trusted Group Tour Managers
Our dedicated tour managers expertly orchestrate every trip from start to finish, ensuring a seamless experience for student groups. They work closely with drivers, handle tickets, and manage any complications that may arise, all while keeping the group moving and on schedule. With their meticulous attention to detail, you can trust that your trip will go off without a hitch.
Jackie Burk
Susan Carrott
Anthony Djuren
Jason Heitland
Pam Houser
Mark Plummer
Scott Prescott
Lisa Schipp
Daryl Timmer
Ready to Plan Your Next Student Trip?
Contact us today to start planning a customized travel experience that will enhance your music program and create lasting memories for your students.