Championing Student Success: The Inspiring Journey of Matt Tantau in Higher Education

Title: Matt Tantau: A Champion for Student Success in Arizona Higher Education

Flagstaff, AZ – While his name may not ring a bell for many, Matt Tantau has been a steadfast advocate for thousands of students over the past two decades at Northern Arizona University (NAU). His journey began in 2000 when he arrived on campus as a student, captivated by the vibrant community and stunning landscapes of Flagstaff.

Originally hailing from Exeter, California, a small town nestled in the Central Valley, Tantau found a familiar sense of belonging in Flagstaff. Both towns share breathtaking mountain views and a strong sense of community, making the transition seamless for him. However, it’s his unwavering commitment to education that truly sets him apart.

Tantau’s career at NAU has been marked by a series of progressive roles, culminating in his recent appointment as the associate vice president of Planning and Strategic Initiatives with the Arizona Board of Regents. His previous positions included associate vice president of Business and Educational Partnerships for the Office of Economic Mobility and Social Impact. With a bachelor’s degree in electronic media journalism and a master’s in educational leadership from NAU, Tantau’s academic background complements his professional journey.

“I believe every student deserves the opportunity to thrive,” Tantau said. “My own experiences as a first-generation college student drive my commitment to expanding access to education. The support I received from faculty and staff shaped my journey, and I strive to create similar opportunities for others.”

As an Eagle Scout and a member of the Grand Canyon Council Executive Board, Tantau embodies a servant-leader mindset. He emphasizes that true leadership in higher education is about more than just systems; it’s about guiding individuals and fostering an environment where students can flourish.

Tantau’s passion for education is evident in his approach to student success. He focuses not only on statistics but also on the personal stories of students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. “Education is a calling for me,” he remarked. “It’s about creating vibrant communities where students gain valuable skills and are empowered to make meaningful contributions.”

Despite the bittersweet nature of his transition from NAU, Tantau is excited about his new role. “I look forward to supporting Arizona’s students and public universities,” he said. “When students graduate, they should be prepared to lead lives of impact and contribute to their communities.”

Outside of his professional life, Tantau enjoys late-night carne asada tacos and indulging in a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Blizzard while watching “I Love Lucy” reruns. He believes in seizing opportunities, a lesson he learned early on: “Always say yes. Never let an opportunity slip away.”

As he embarks on this new chapter, Tantau remains committed to his core values of dependability, directness, and humor. His journey is a testament to the power of education and the impact one individual can have on the lives of many.

Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography: Matt Tantau believes his superpower lies in bringing people together and getting things done, all while “lovingly dragging everyone along for the ride.”