Tanja Carroll, Vector Director of Partnerships
Name: Tanja Carroll
Where were you born and raised?
Originally from the Netherlands but raised in 9 different countries.
What’s a short story around the biggest transition you’ve faced in life?
Moving from then called Zaire (the DRC) to the United States for the first time was probably the biggest culture shock I had ever experienced. I had spent most of my life in the developing world at that point so to move to the United States, the land where everything was glamorous and abundant, was a dream for a teenager. I remember that the first thing I did when we got to the hotel from the airport was turn on the TV, and it ended up showing an old Elvis movie. How iconic!
What’s the one piece of advice you’d give a younger you?
Don’t be afraid to go after what you are passionate about, even if it seems scary and out of your comfort zone. Don’t overthink everything and definitely don’t worry about what you think others think of you.
Your Personal Why?
That’s an easy one. My family for sure. Everything I’ve done these past 20 years has been for my family.
How does your Why drive you to be a part of the THF Ecosystem?
I love that work-life balance is such an important value for THF. My family comes first and being able to juggle my kids schedules and college visits with my job at THF is truly my dream job!
Military Connection or Why do you respect Special Operators?
My grandfather served in the Navy during WW2 and I grew up hearing all his stories. My husband retired after being in the Navy for 28 years and still works for the Navy. As a military spouse I’m so proud to be able to work for The Honor Foundation and provide transitional opportunities to veterans.
Favorite THF Value, and why?
“Be You” is my favorite THF Value. What spoke to me about Vector Accelerator is that veterans get to dig deep into their values, motivations, and vision. What a gift that we are able to provide this opportunity: Help veterans to be themselves!
Area/Industry of expertise:
I’m really a jack of all trades having an MBA and working in corporate sustainability to working with au pair families on global awareness to being a franchise owner. My forte is stakeholder engagement and finding the win-win for everyone involved.
Contact Tanja directly at tanja@honor.org.