John and Susan Tanner have found joy in learning for many years. While pursuing their degrees at BYU, John and Susan became close friends. In 1974, they were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple, and they feel that their strong friendship served as a foundation for their marriage. They are now the proud parents of five children.
John’s commitment to scholarship led him to earn a doctorate in English from the University of California, Berkeley, despite the challenging job market in his chosen field. To support his family during his doctoral studies, he attended school during the day and studied at night while working security jobs.
Throughout their lives, John and Susan have supported each other in their many callings. When Susan was called as the twelfth president of the Church’s Young Women organization, John supported her so she could magnify that role. Then, when John was called to be president of BYU-Hawaii, Susan stood by his side, providing unwavering support. In a BYU forum, John and Susan Tanner continued to stand side-by-side as they taught the students how to fulfill the dream of BYU.
