You may recognize Tanner’s name from his many accomplishments in cross country and track but through sitting down with him, I realized there is so much more to him. Read on to discover who Tanner is on and off the track!
Hometown: Havana, IL
Major(s)/Minor(s): Public Health and Geography
Year: Senior
Campus Involvement: Men’s Cross Country, Men’s Track, Student worker for the Upper Mississippi Center
To start off, tell us something about yourself.
I love Augie and running so much that I will be back for a 5th year to run track.
What was it like running at nationals?
Running at nationals was a thrilling experience. It was different to be there as an individual, but having a lot of my team members made the 6 hour drive to Louisville to watch me made me feel blessed to be part of such a tight-knit group. Also, the course, which was at Tom Sawyer State Park, ended up being my favorite course I have raced on.
When did you start running and why?
I started running in 5th grade. I remember watching cross country practice through my dad’s classroom window and thinking to myself that I wanted to join. The next day, I went to practice and threw up after the run.
What have you gotten out of being a student athlete here at Augustana?
Being a student athlete at Augie, I immediately had a family in my team members and coaches. I know I can rely on these people inside and outside the classroom.
When you aren’t running, what do you like to dedicate your time to?
When I am not running, I spend time studying (not as much as I should) and hanging out with my girlfriend and friends. My girlfiend and I cook a lot together. My friends and I usually sit in the living room messing with my roommate’s cat, Quigley, and watching Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown.
Where would you ideally like to see yourself in the future?
I would honestly like to stick around the QC area. It has become a place that I truly care about and I would love to help make a difference in the community. Right now, I plan to live in Rock Island for the next 2-3 years.
Who are the people that you would say got you to where you are today?
I have always looked up to my mom for her strength and compassion, especially, in difficult situations. She has taught me to forgive and to be humble. I would not be where I am today without her.
My girlfriend, Jen, has also shaped the person I am today. I struggled a lot freshmen year adjusting to college life, but meeting her changed that. I finally felt like I belonged at Augie. After almost 3 years, she continues to be my best friend and one of my strongest supporters.
What is the most important thing you think you’ve learned in your four years at Augustana?
The most important thing I have learned at Augustana is that I don’t know nearly as much as I think I do. It is always humbling to listen to my classmates and professors and learn something new. Being a lifelong learner is something that I think we should all strive to be.
What kind of goals do you currently have for yourself?
For running, my personal goal is to be competing for a national championship the next two years. I would also love to help the team win a couple more conference championships before I’m done. But, most importantly, I want to celebrate life.
What is your dream job?
My dream job would probably be a college professor teaching Geography or some field related to Urban Studies. I would love to be in a position to help others learn and do community-based projects at the same time.
What do you like most about the QC area?
My favorite thing about the QC area is the people. I’ve met a lot of people here who are passionate and want to make a difference on issues that matter. Also, the craft beer scene is off the charts! The QC has some great local breweries.
And to end, is there any key advice you have for Augustana students?
My advice for Augie students is to be engaged in the community more. The community is a great asset for us and we are a great asset for the community. Find something in the community that you can be engaged with and don’t be afraid to start a conversation with local residents.