News Summary
Matt Tantau has been appointed as the associate vice president of Planning and Strategic Initiatives with the Arizona Board of Regents. With 18 years of experience at NAU, he will focus on increasing access to higher education, particularly for first-generation college students and those from rural backgrounds. Tantau’s leadership philosophy emphasizes support systems essential for student success and he is dedicated to promoting equity and opportunity for all students in Arizona.
Arizona is set to benefit from increased focus on higher education access following the appointment of Matt Tantau as the associate vice president of Planning and Strategic Initiatives with the Arizona Board of Regents. Tantau, with over 18 years of experience at Northern Arizona University (NAU), aims to enhance opportunities for students, particularly first-generation college students and those from rural backgrounds.
Hailing from Exeter, California, Tantau’s journey into higher education is rooted in personal experiences as a first-generation college student. His commitment to student success is at the forefront of his work, emphasizing the importance of faculty and staff support. He recognizes that dedicated support systems are crucial for students’ academic journeys. In his new role, he plans to expand access to higher education across the state, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive.
Professional Background
Tantau brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new position. At NAU, he held various roles, including associate director of Campus Services and Activities and associate vice president of Business and Educational Partnerships for the Office of Economic Mobility and Social Impact. His experience in these positions has equipped him with a deep understanding of the educational landscape, making him well-suited to tackle the challenges faced by Arizona’s higher education system.
Educational Credentials
Tantau earned both his bachelor’s degree in electronic media journalism and his master’s degree in educational leadership from NAU. This educational background not only provides him with a solid foundation in communication and leadership but also signifies his long-standing commitment to the university where he has spent his professional career.
Personal Connection to Higher Education
Having experienced the challenges faced by first-generation college students, Tantau is passionate about providing opportunities for those who might otherwise lack access to higher education. His understanding of these challenges fuels his initiatives within the Arizona Board of Regents. By leveraging his experiences, he aims to create a more inclusive educational environment that supports a diverse student population.
Community Engagement
In addition to his professional roles, Tantau serves on the Grand Canyon Council Executive Board and is recognized as an Eagle Scout, underscoring his commitment to community service and leadership. His dedication to service and outreach demonstrates a holistic approach to education that goes beyond the classroom, focusing on developing well-rounded individuals who can contribute to society.
Personal Interests
Outside of his professional commitments, Tantau enjoys late-night carne asada tacos and Old Fashion cocktails during sunset, activities that reflect his appreciation for quality experiences. He also enjoys indulging in Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Blizzards while watching reruns of “I Love Lucy.” His aspirations include visiting the Pyramids in Egypt and exploring Antarctica, showcasing a curiosity for the world beyond his immediate surroundings.
Leadership Philosophy
Tantau’s leadership style is characterized by his values of dependability, directness, and humor. He prefers a drama-free work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. Influenced by the principles exemplified by Fred Rogers, he champions honesty, kindness, and service as essential qualities for effective leadership. His overarching goal is to guide individuals, expand opportunities, and facilitate the success of the next generation.
As Arizona looks toward the future of higher education, Matt Tantau’s appointment marks a significant step toward promoting equity and access for all students, reflecting a commitment to building a brighter future for Arizona’s public universities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
