Brian Luball
Owner
Rugger Educational Tours was founded by Brian Luball, a veteran Long Island educator with more than 20 years of experience leading student programs in the Levittown School District.
After seeing the life-changing impact of exposing students to real college environments, Brian created Rugger Educational Tours to make those opportunities accessible for districts across New York and the Northeast.
Rugger
The Boss
Every great company needs a fearless leader — or at least one who drools with enthusiasm. Meet Rugger, our official mascot and namesake. Known for his calm leadership style and impeccable nap schedule, Rugger reminds us that every journey should be well-planned, safe, and maybe include a snack break.
Our Mission
To make college discovery experiences safe, meaningful, and equitable for every student by partnering directly with school districts to deliver structured, standards-aligned tours that support college and career readiness goals under ESSA Title IV.
Our Approach
- District-Exclusive Partnerships: We work only with schools and school districts — not private groups — ensuring every tour aligns with educational priorities and district policies.
- Turnkey Planning: We handle transportation, lodging, meals, campus coordination, and parent communication from start to finish.
- Safety First: Every tour includes professional overnight security, certified staff, and full NYSIR-compliant insurance coverage.
- Complimentary Chaperones: One free chaperone is provided for every ten students, including lodging, meals, and transportation.
- Flexible Regional Options: We offer customized New York, Mid-Atlantic, and New England College Discovery Tours, featuring visits to a mix of SUNY, private, and out-of-state institutions.
Our Educational Impact
Research has consistently shown that students who visit college campuses are far more likely to apply to and enroll in higher education.
At Rugger, we help districts turn that evidence into action by creating experiences that motivate, inform, and inspire students to see themselves in college.
(Philopoulos & Kornowa, Journal of College Access, 2023; ERIC GEAR UP Study, 2022)
Our Team
Rugger Educational Tours is supported by a professional network of educators, certified tour staff, and trusted travel partners who share one goal — helping students see what’s possible.
Our leadership team brings experience from public education, student travel, and school administration to ensure every tour meets the highest standards of safety and quality.
Samantha
Certified Tour Guide
Samantha is a veteran Social Studies teacher from Long Island with 25 years of classroom and student travel experience. She has led and chaperoned dozens of overnight trips to Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Boston, making history come alive for her students. With a strong background in college admissions and the application process, Samantha brings valuable insights to every tour, helping students connect their campus visits to their future goals. Her passion for education and dedication to student success make her a trusted and knowledgeable guide.
Michael
Certified Tour Guide
Michael brings over a decade of experience as an educator and coach to Rugger Educational Tours. A dedicated physical education teacher in Nassau County, he has spent the last 10 years inspiring students both in the classroom and on the field. His commitment to student growth extends far beyond academics. Michael currently serves as a varsity head wrestling coach, high school football coach, and middle school lacrosse coach. His leadership, enthusiasm, and deep understanding of youth development make him a trusted guide and mentor on our tours. Whether helping students navigate college campuses or sharing his own experiences, Michael ensures every traveler is supported, engaged, and motivated to explore their future.
Don
Certified Tour Guide
Don is an experienced band director and music adviser in Westchester with over 25 years of inspiring students in grades 6–12. He has organized and led countless trips to music festivals, performances, and historic sites across the Northeast, enriching students’ educational and cultural experiences. Throughout his career, Don has fostered a lifelong love of learning, with many of his students going on to attend top universities and thrive in diverse careers both within and beyond the arts. As the proud parent of a middle and high school student, Don is passionate about sharing his expertise and guiding the next generation of college-bound learners
Gwynne
Certified Tour Guide
Gwynne is a veteran music teacher in Westchester with over 20 years of experience. She is dedicated to helping young people discover their passions, build confidence, and pursue their dreams. Gwynne believes every student’s path is unique and, with patience and encouragement, works to connect their strengths and interests with the right opportunities. Her goal is to make the college search process less overwhelming and more inspiring—helping students find where they can truly thrive.
Sam
Certified Tour Guide
Sam is a certified tour guide with Ruggers Educational Tours, known for her professionalism and dedication to student success. As a special education teacher on Long Island, she brings a strong foundation in communication, organization, and inclusive support—making her a trusted leader for student travel. Her passion for videography allows her to document each trip’s highlights, capturing the joy and discovery that come with hands-on learning. Sam is deeply committed to creating safe, memorable, and engaging experiences where every student feels seen and supported. With her calm presence, attention to detail, and genuine care for young travelers, families and schools alike can feel confident knowing their students are in great hands.
