discover a NEW standard of excellence
At History Hitch, we’re proud of the cutting-edge innovation and development that we have cultivated and continue to provide in the school market. With a commitment to quality and high standards, you can be confident in a world-class tour. Our mission is simple: to provide you and your school with the very best value, service, and quality. With a unique blend of culture and education, our tours allow your students the chance to make dreams become reality.
As a leading tour specialist for schools, our success is based on our attention to detail and our strong belief that a school trip should be more than a tour, it should be the educational experience of a lifetime.
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. ”
- Mark Twain
Michele Hammock
President & Founder
Having been in the school travel industry since 2004, and in hospitality and tourism since 1993, Michele's top priority is service to our schools. Michele is a Master Scuba Diver with certifications in Coral Reef Conservation and as an Underwater Naturalist. Michele's favorite destinations include taking students to learn to dive in Mexico, studying marine biology and ecology in Belize, or exploring the cities of Europe.
Izzy Franckewitz
Vice President, Operations
Izzy started in the school travel industry serving international groups visiting the beaches of Florida when she was just 16 years old. From there, she has traveled the world, inspiring students over the past 16 years. Izzy is a Master Scuba Diver and lover of oceans. In her spare time, she also assists with the Missouri Disaster Medical Team. Izzy's favorite destinations are Cozumel, Costa Rica and the vast landscapes of Iceland.
Corinne Simmons
Vice President, Finance
Corinne heads our finance department and works with all of our groups to ensure they are set up for success. Corinne's background in hospitality spans many years, handling everything from finance to operations, reservations and even field work. She has been the recipient of many awards including the prestigious Jefferson Circle Award presented by President Ronald Reagan. Corinne lives on the beach in North Carolina.
James Hammock
Director, Field Operations
James works with our groups in the field and has been serving schools for over 15 years. His knowledge, enthusiasm and dedication to service, sets him apart. James holds the rank of 5th Degree Black Belt in Karate plus numerous black belts in Tae Kwon Do, Akido, Tomili Ryu, Traditional Jujitsu and Shaolin Kung Fu. He is also a certified Krav Maga instructor. James has been inducted into the United States & also the World Martial Arts Hall of Fame on three occasions for both personal achievement as well as teaching.