The Alumni Hall of Fame recognizes Visions In Education alumni who have excelled in higher education, their careers, or through meaningful contributions to their communities. Through the Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award, Visions will honor these individuals and highlight their journeys as a reflection of the positive impact our programs can have.
Tanner Zumwalt is a firm believer that “to whom much is given, much is required”. From a young age, he prioritized staying engaged, enriched, and empowered through education and stewardship, both of which have guided his life from adolescence to adulthood.
Tanner’s journey began in seventh grade when he enrolled at Visions In Education, starting in the Home School Academy and subsequently transitioning into our Independent Study program for high school. At the time, Tanner was seeking the flexibility to pursue advanced coursework at a community college and balance a wide range of extracurricular activities, everything from triathlons to scouting.
“As a Visions student, I was able to work with some amazing educators and take advantage of a range of…learning opportunities,” said Tanner. “I enjoyed taking charge of my learning style and pace, ensuring I was able to stay challenged and engaged throughout high school.”
From piano lessons to volunteer work to community college classes, Tanner’s head-start, hands-on approach to education was bolstered by Visions’ structure and staff.
“During my time at Visions, I was blessed with some phenomenal teachers and faculty. The amazing Donelle O’Brien was my teacher for most of my time at Visions—she taught me to love education and fueled a spark for learning that extended well beyond her years as my teacher. She genuinely cared about me and would proactively reach out to connect me with extracurricular activities to ensure I was challenged and enriched beyond the classroom.”
Tanner’s teachers, as well as the resources made available by Visions, not only challenged him, encouraged his creativity, and nurtured his passion for education, but also connected him with the opportunities that propelled his post-secondary path.
After graduating early from Visions, Tanner went on to study at University of California, Davis, receiving his Bachelor’s in International Relations at the age of 18.
“As a young college student, I was able to continue cultivating the same passions that defined my experience at Visions, spanning undergraduate honors research to part-time work with the California State Assembly.”
Tanner currently holds the position of Assistant United States Attorney with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah. As a federal prosecutor, he is responsible for prosecuting a wide range of crimes with a special emphasis on financial offenses. He continues to find ways to seek adventure, challenge, and the opportunity to give back to his country while honoring Visions as the foundation for his success.
“Throughout my life, I’ve been blessed with some amazing opportunities, from my phenomenal education at Visions to my legal career and beyond,” Tanner shared. “Visions empowered me to take ownership of my education and seek out learning in unexpected places. I had the unique privilege of ‘choosing my own adventure’ throughout middle and high school—an experience that’s instilled a deep sense of self-direction, initiative, and resilience. The skills I developed during that time continue to shape and strengthen my professional journey. I’m profoundly grateful to the Visions teachers and counselors for offering a stellar, flexible education, and encouraging me to pursue my passions.”
In addition to his work with the Department of Justice and service in the National Guard, Tanner honors his 12-year tenure as an Army Officer by giving back to the veteran community, volunteering as an admissions coach to help servicemembers transition from the military to college.
When he’s not working, you can find Tanner hiking, swimming, and “visiting the best playgrounds Utah has to offer” with his three young boys. Ages 2-7, they are in the beginning stages of their own learning, and have an exceptional model to turn to when in need of advice.
“Take ownership of your education and boldly pursue your passions, both inside and outside the classroom,” Tanner offered. “True learning is not confined to textbooks or assignments; it thrives in curiosity, initiative, and imagination. Your teachers are not just guides but partners in your journey—ready to support, challenge, and collaborate with you. Don’t hesitate to bring them your ideas; together, you can shape an educational path that is as unique and ambitious as your potential.”
Tanner’s story truly reflects the heart of the Visions’ mission – transforming learning into leadership and dreams into lasting impact – and we look forward to following along on his continued journey.
“Tanner was always a strong student, dedicated to lifelong learning,” said Tanner’s Visions teacher and 25-year employee Donelle O’Brien. “His commitment to public service, impact on law, problem solving, leadership, and persistence are exemplary, and his passion for helping the community, justice, and equity embodies the qualities to be honored for this award.”
“I’m very honored to be welcomed into the Visions Alumni Hall of Fame,” said Tanner. “This recognition is a reflection not only of my educational journey, but also of the incredible support, mentorship, and faculty that helped shape who I am today.”
