ABERDEEN, S.D.?– Northern State University is proud to recognize alumnus Tanner White on his appointment as CEO of the future Altru Hospital in Devils Lake, North Dakota.
White, a 2015 graduate of Northern State University with a Bachelor of Science in human performance and fitness, has built a career rooted in strong relationships, strategic leadership and a passion for community-centered care. A former student-athlete on the Wolves football team, White credits his time at Northern for laying the groundwork for a life of continuous learning and service.
“The most memorable experiences I have had in my career revolve around relationships,” White said. “The connections I made with fellow students and teammates at NSU, the relationships I developed when I started my personal training career, and the interactions with other business owners in the Aberdeen community when I launched Tempo Training, along with my time at Avera, are memories I will forever cherish.”
White took a leap of faith in 2017 when he left his role at the YMCA to start his own business, Tempo Training. He later sold the business to Avera Health and joined the organization to help build the Avera St. Luke’s Human Performance Center in Aberdeen. Through his work at Avera, White held several leadership roles and discovered his passion for rural health care.
“Joining Avera opened my eyes to the field of health care, and it was then that I realized my goal was to lead a health care organization,” White said. “Joining Altru in Devils Lake as CEO is a dream come true.”
In his new role, White is eager to build meaningful connections in the Lake Region.
“From what I have seen so far, they have an exceptional community, and I’m excited for my family to be part of it,” he said.
White also offered advice for current NSU students.
“First, of course, is to work hard. This is the key to success. Second, when adversity comes your way — and it will — be resilient. Finally, be kind to yourself and others. We have one chance at life; why waste it being angry or frustrated? Kindness will help you build relationships, and you never know where those connections could lead.”
White holds an MBA in health care management from Capella University and is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.