Tanja Vanheyningen, Middle Tennessee State University, is a native of Nashville, Tennessee. She began her studies at Middle Tennessee State University in 1984 as a political science major but paused her education to focus on raising her family. Though she stepped away from school, her desire for learning never stopped as she vowed to complete the degree she started. She took every opportunity to continue learning, including earning a banking operations certification through her employer, First American National Bank, in partnership with Nashville State Community College.

After her children were grown and had completed their education, Tanja returned to MTSU in January 2020—33 years later—to finish what she started. She became a first-generation college graduate in 2023, earning a B.S. in integrated studies, concentrating on organizational leadership with a minor in psychology. She is now pursuing a MALA master’s degree at MTSU and is on track to graduate in December 2025.

Tanja has worked with Regions Bank for 36 years, where she currently serves as a mortgage specialist. Tanja is an animal lover with a soft spot for rescue pups. Over the years, she has volunteered with organizations such as Angels of Rescue, Animal Rescue Corps, the Humane Association, Habitat for Humanity and Thistle Farms.

Let’s get to know Tanja!

What inspired you to pursue a Master of Liberal Arts at this stage in your career?I’ve held various roles and have always been passionate about learning. My Capstone focused on the challenges faced by the neurodivergent community, inspired by personal experience. Teaching and helping others pursue their goals has been the most fulfilling part of my career. Encouraged by professors, I explored MTSU’s programs and chose MALA for its flexibility and alignment with my purpose—advocacy and impact. The multidisciplinary, humanitarian focus supports both my current goals and future plans, including a possible retirement career in Talent Acquisition or teaching.

As a lifelong resident of Nashville, what do you love most about your community?
I love it here; it’s a big little city. Some see it as small, but it offers experiences and opportunities that rival those of bigger cities while maintaining its small-town charm. 

What does Phi Kappa Phi mean to you?
Phi Kappa Phi means dedication to ethical leadership. This academic recognition renews my faith in my educational accomplishments. It motivates me and makes me proud to share my story: that age, life stage, or professional position do not limit a person's ability or desire to learn. Phi Kappa Phi rekindles my enthusiasm to engage with and contribute to my community and offers tools like mentorship and scholarships to support my growth and inspire future generations.

What is one thing most people would be surprised to learn about you?
I am an introvert. I have held professional positions that require me to be social, and I excel in them. However, I am a true introvert, but I am situationally social. 

Where is the most incredible place you traveled to?
I have spent time traveling locally to places such as Washington, D.C., Texas, Florida, Nevada, North Carolina, the Bahamas, and Louisiana. I haven't yet visited any of my dream destinations, such as South America and Dubai, but as a young adult, I traveled to my father's homeland, St. Thomas, VI. That trip was incredible because I got to experience my multicultural heritage.

What are your hobbies?
I enjoy spending time with my grandkids, friends, and family. I love watching football, reading, hiking, and traveling, which I intend to do more of once I retire.

What motivates you to work hard?
My kids have motivated me to work hard. I have a desire to succeed in whatever life places in my path. I choose a journey that I have a genuine interest in and will fulfill a purpose. I have a sense of responsibility to my family, work life, and those whom I may impact along the way. I also have a fear of failure, which motivates me.

What is the best gift you have been given?
The gift of my kids and patience is the most valuable to me because they go hand in hand, revealing both my strengths and vulnerabilities. I aspire to be a positive influence on my kids because they are my source of inspiration, happiness, and hope for the future. Parenthood and patience have contributed significantly to my personal growth, teaching me to have empathy for myself and others, and reminding me that life is not as serious as I tend to make it at times. These gifts keep me grounded.

What is your favorite movie?
There is a tie—"Shrek" and "The Lion King"

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be?
There is a tie—Sojourner Truth and Ketanji Brown. Both women historically broke barriers! These women embody the importance of seeing influential women who look like me advocating for equality, justice, and representation, which encourages me on my journey.

To learn more about Tanja and connect, visit her profile within our online member community here.

Is there someone you would like to see in the spotlight? Send your nomination to news@phikappaphi.org, and include background information for the nomination.