Foundation Board Member Feature: Tanya Dickinson

Tanya Dickinson is a loyal and generous Dragon who lives in Alaska. She and her husband Pete ensure future students have many opportunities by giving back to MSUM. Tanya is a 2000 business administration alumna who owns All American Training Center and Ultimate Tan in Soldotna, Alaska. 

“I serve on the MSUM Foundation board, and my husband, also an MSUM graduate, and I continue to give back to the university, primarily to the wrestling program,” she said.

Why have you stayed connected to MSUM?  
My husband was a wrestler at MSUM, and we attribute what we have in life to the University and the wrestling program. We continue to support the program now.

What energizes you in your role serving on the Foundation Board?
Hearing about the amazing lives many MSUM graduates have gone on to live! There is so much talent, intellect, generosity, and kindness that we learn about during alumni awards that I find inspirational.

What’s one thing you’re learning now, and why is it important? 
I sit on multiple sports-related boards in our community and am constantly learning to work with people from all walks of life and experiences. It’s important to listen to and understand other people’s perspectives and ideas because it leads to more thoughtful and fully developed decision-making.

What’s the most interesting project you’re working on right now?
Owning/running a fitness/wrestling facility is my most interesting ongoing project.

What’s the best advice you were ever given and who was it from?
My dad said to do everything with conviction and purpose, both physically and mentally. 

What personal or professional achievement are you most proud of?
Being a mom to two children and my husband and I retiring from our “normal careers” before 45.

What experiences in your life inspired you to give?
Giving makes the world go round. I would not say one experience or multiple experiences inspire me to give. Rather, it’s just the right thing to do.