Meet the Staff

Ken Hayes - President/Owner

As a teacher, coach, and Athletic Director in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County school system for 33 years, I have devoted my professional life to young people. I served as Tour Director of Winston-Salem Grand Western Tours for those same 33 years and then became President/Owner thirteen years ago. Travel is an important aspect of my personal life as well, with excursions throughout the United States, Mexico, Canada, Europe, and Asia. I also enjoy playing golf. It is my sincerest hope that our young people take every opportunity to experience life to the fullest, which is why I offer the Winston-Salem Grand Western Tour. Perhaps you will join us this year!

Glenn Jordan - Tour Director (picture coming soon)

Upon returning from each of my seven stints with The Grand Western Tour, I never failed to realize that I'd just lived one of the most positive stretches of the year. Thanks to all of you for making round eight possible, my fourth as tour director.

I've spent 19 years teaching middle school, the past 14 at Western Rockingham Middle School. Over the years, I've taught seventh and eighth grade social studies, math and science. I also coach track and field.

I enjoy long, daily walks with my 82-pound pit bull and a yellow lab, tipping the scales around 110. I also enjoy history, music, politics, sports and gazing at Kansas wheat fields through a bus window, but not always in that order. Once again, thanks and I look forward to the summer.

Kristen Edwards - Chaperon

This is Kristen's fourth summer traveling with The Grand Western Tour.

Kristen graduated from Appalachian in 2003 and has just completed her 7th year teaching. She has taught in Pilot Mountain for 5 of those years. Kristen has taught 6th, 4th and 3rd grade and is also the varsity girls soccer coach at East Surry High School.

Kristen enjoys watching and competing in sports, being outside, and playing with her dog, Belle.


Lucy Dillard - Chaperon

Lucy graduated from Western Carolina University in 2005 and has taught Social Studies for four years. For the two previous years she coached dance and taught at North Forsyth High School in Winston-Salem. Currently, she is pursuing her Masters Degree at North Carolina State University.

Lucy enjoys watching sports, baking and doing craft projects.




Randall Gunter - Chaperon

Randall Graduated from James Madison University in 1990 with a BBA in Business Administration. He has just completed his tenth year teaching for Patrick County Schools in Virginia. During that time, he has taught U.S. History, Civics, and 6th-7th grade math. Randall is also a sponsor of the Woolwine Junior Beta Club.

In his spare time, Randall enjoys traveling, fishing, attending live music events and photography.