Tanya DeNee
Wellbeing Coordinator
From an early age, Tanya knew she wanted to help care for our planet. Stemming from a love of the natural world and a 1970s public service commercial that left a lasting impression, her passion for making positive change was revealed in her professional study and employment as a Colorado State Ranger, watershed specialist, and Field Project Manager for an environmental engineering firm. In 2008, she shifted her focus from the natural world to the human experience, where she built a career as a licensed clinical social worker. With educational and clinical experience, Tanya brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as Wellness Coordinator at Golisano Institute. She is energized by the Institute’s focus on supporting personal growth, wellness, and self-actualization. When she’s not working, Tanya prioritizes quality time with family, friends, and her fur babies. She enjoys hiking, paddleboarding, gardening, skiing, and keeping up her yoga and meditation practice.
Q&As
Favorite inspirational quote:
You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. – Christopher Robin
Three fun facts:
- I owned a unique historic seal reproduction business for 6 years. For 4 summers, my kids and I practically lived at the Renaissance Festival.
- I was personally featured as a college athlete in a 1987 Wall Street Journal article highlighting the National Woodsman team’s championships and winners.
- I had many wild adventures in Madagascar, from almost capsizing in the Indian Ocean to sharing space with a family of Lemurs!