Name: Tarin Acaron
Birthdate: December 20, 1979
Where were you born? Washington, D.C.
What are your community activities? (church or faith-based involvement, local, regional and national professional organizations, non-profits, etc) I work closely with Puppy Hill Farm, March of Dimes and Children’s Miracle Network (to help both two- and four-legged babies in our area). I occasionally serve as a mentor for the Buchholz Academy of Entrepreneurship. I am the President of the North Central Florida Chapter of the League of Southeastern Credit Unions and a member of the Credit Union Executive Society. I am honored to be member of Leadership Gainesville Class 40.
List any awards you have won for community service: Recently, I was honored by AFP of North Central Florida on National Philanthropic Day.
What is your definition of success? I think, to me, success would be defined as that perfect work/life balance. To have a successful and meaningful career in an organization that values me and a life full of family and friends in a thriving community…and vacations (lots of vacations).
What is your greatest professional accomplishment? Being appointed as the Marketing Officer of CAMPUS USA Credit Union and helping the credit union grow to over $1 billion in assets was a great accomplishment. Also being selected to participate in the Credit Union Executive Society CEO Institute and Leadership Gainesville (LG40) has been really exciting for me, as is being nominated for Top Forty Under 40.
How do you exemplify the spirit of a Forty Under 40 professional? After moving to Gainesville to attend the University of Florida thirteen years ago, I have grown to see Gainesville as my home. I am excited to learn more about our community through the Leadership Gainesville program and hope that I can contribute something special to our hometown. As the Marketing Officer for the largest locally owned financial institution in our area, I have had the opportunity to work with and learn from some of our community leaders and I look forward to carving my own way!
Businessperson who has most inspired you: I have been blessed to work with and for some truly inspirational people but our Chief Sales Officer, Greg Waters, continues to inspire me through his encouragement and mentorship. He is always asking for more, and encouraging me not to settle for status quo. Not once in the last 10 years have I seen Greg compromised his values or integrity. I am also inspired every day by my husband, a cancer survivor; his empathy and positivity are contagious and he is a constant reminder that tomorrow is not a promise. He inspires me to be a better businessperson and a better leader; a better person.
Best advice ever received: Perception is reality. Things are what we perceive them to be.
Greatest professional challenge: To inspire and engage others.
First job: Ballet and tap dance instructor for kids
What color crayon would you be? Why? Razzmatazz! It sound like fun!
Favorite after-work drink: KC Crave’s Slap n ’Tickle
If I had a magic wand, I’d: use it to read minds! I would LOVE to know what people are thinking!
What is your favorite Gadget? My iPhone, I can’t live without it!
How long have you been in Gainesville? 13 years
What do you love most about Gainesville/Alachua County? It’s got plenty to keep you busy from Gator Football to The Hippodrome, but still a great small town to raise a family.
Three things people would be surprised to know about you: 1. I usually have a dog treat in the bottom of my purse (maybe not a huge surprise). 2. I don’t understand the rules of football, but I still love it! 3. I don’t eat pasta – can’t stand it!
Advice you would give a younger you: Dream Big! If you want something ask for it! (and, stop straightening your hair!)