07/21/2026
We are excited to share another Staff Spotlight with everyone that is hot off the presses. Please join us in celebrating Eddie Thigpen.
Before joining Emerald Student Travel four years ago as a Tour Director, Eddie dedicated his career to education, making him a natural fit for helping students learn beyond the classroom. One of his favorite Emerald memories is watching students at Carolina Beach catch their very first fish—many had never even seen the ocean before—and seeing their excitement firsthand. Eddie believes student travel is about much more than academics; while educational experiences are invaluable, he knows students also grow through learning responsibility, managing their time and money, and building relationships with their peers. His favorite destination is the Outer Banks. He encourages first-time traveling teachers to experience each trip through the eyes of their students, embracing the wonder and excitement that comes with every new adventure. When he's not traveling, Eddie enjoys cooking, reading, and exploring new places. He lives in King, North Carolina, and is the proud father of three sons—twins Patrick and Christian, and their younger brother Trey—and recently welcomed his first grandson. Eddie believes Emerald Student Travel sets the standard in educational travel because owner Tony Infantino and the entire team are committed to doing everything possible to meet the needs of every student, creating unforgettable learning experiences along the way.
