Rev. Dr. Selma V. Tatum

Minister

Rev. Dr. Selma V. Tatum

​My name is the Rev. Dr. Selma Tatum having received my Doctor of Divinity degree on the 20th of May 2023. I worked straight out of high school to assist my younger sisters thru their schooling and did not pursue higher education for myself for many years. They each have advanced certificates and degrees, but I am the first to receive a doctoral degree.
​
​I left my corporate career to raise two of my grandchildren who are now grown, educated and gainfully employed. During their school years I worked in the non-profit community of my church because the hours were conducive to being present for them. Many parenting grandparents were encountered by me as I sort assistance to make this parenting again journey. Most of the grandparents I met were much older than me and in need of assistance to get through the New York Family Court system, which is not at all helpful especially to minorities who are often intimidated and illiterate, but want to keep their grand and great grandchildren within their family. I learned from my own experiences and shared that information with my elders. I was the youngest grandparent to go through the NYC Department of Aging training for group leaders. My personal group started with 4 grandparents and grew to over 20 adults which included one father. Many triumphs and defeats educated all involved making us like a large extended family. My role as a mentor came also from developing relationships with not only the grandparents but with the children and teens involved.

​Additionally, I became the first PTA president for a newly opening high school that my oldest grandchild attended. Lessons were learned, not only by the students, but by the parents and the school administration. Often you know where you want to go but are not clear on how to get there and a guiding (or mentoring) hand is needed. Until today I am still in contact with the members of that first graduating class as they pursue their dreams and have their own families. I strongly believe mentors are family members you just hadn't met yet.

​Within my church community and ministry I facilitate a small group ministry of a non-traditional Book Club of 20 women 38 to 78 years of age. Each brings their special God given gifts to the group and I truly believe, while they chose to join, that God orchestrated from behind the scenes. Besides reading a book a month, we assist a community school with rebuilding their library as the position of librarian was eliminated. There are young readers starting at four years old, who receive a book twice a month to encourage them but also their parents to read. Education and reading are a necessity along with a library card. Lastly, I recently began a single mothers (ages 30-40) ministry to work with them on living and having a life in spite of whatever negative circumstances may have gotten you to single parenting. Having been a single mother/grandmother this group is extra special to me.

​I want my legacy to be one of teaching while leading through positive life changing actions.