From the Field House to the Church House to the Statehouse: Kyev Tatum – A Man of Action, Advancement, and Achievement.

 

From the Field House to the Church House to the Statehouse: Kyev Tatum – A Man of Action, Advancement, and Achievement.

FORT WORTH, TEXAS - For over four decades, Kyev Tatum has dedicated his life to service, justice, and empowerment. Whether on the football field, in the pulpit, or advocating in the halls of government, his journey is one of unwavering commitment to uplifting communities and advancing systemic change.

The Making of a Leader: From the Field House to the Fight for Justice

Born and raised in Fort Worth, Tatum’s early years at Trimble Tech High School (1980–1984) laid the foundation for his leadership. As a student-athlete, he embraced discipline, teamwork, and resilience—traits that would define his future efforts in education, civil rights, and ministry.

At Tarleton State University (1984–1986), Tatum excelled as a football player while serving as student assistant to President Dr. Barry B. Thompson. It was in this role that he witnessed the intersection of policy, leadership, and education—realizing that true change happens at the decision-making table.

A Voice for the Voiceless: Advocacy and Advancement

Tatum’s passion for justice took root at the University of North Texas (1986–1991), where he emerged as a bold advocate for marginalized communities. He used his voice to challenge systemic inequities, ensuring that underserved students had access to opportunities and representation.

His activism deepened at Texas State University (1991–2004), where he refined his skills in policy development and community engagement, preparing for a lifetime of impact.

Building a Better Future: From the Church Seats, to Streets to the Statehouse

Returning to Fort Worth in 2004, Tatum turned his attention to the city’s most urgent issues—economic inequality, food insecurity, and racial injustice. As the leader of the Ministers Justice Coalition of Texas, he has been at the forefront of:

• Criminal justice reform – Advocating for fair and equitable policies.

• Educational equity – Ensuring that all students, regardless of background, have access to quality education.

• Economic empowerment – Creating opportunities for wealth-building in underserved communities.

His transformative initiatives include:

• Farm Fort Worth – An urban farming and economic development project addressing food deserts.

• The MLK Hunger Bowl – A community-driven effort to combat food insecurity.

• The Youth Coffee Expo – Introducing inner-city youth to the specialty coffee industry and entrepreneurship.

Faith in Action: Ministry and Mission

In 2018, Tatum took on another mantle of leadership as pastor of New Mount Rose Missionary Baptist Church. Under his guidance, the church has become a center for social justice, education, and economic advancement. He has spearheaded projects such as:

• The Texas 6888th Project – Honoring Black women’s military service and contributions to history.

• Black Land in White Hands – Addressing historical land loss and promoting racial healing.

A Legacy of Leadership and Achievement

From the field house to the church house to the statehouse, Kyev Tatum has remained a man of action, advancement, and achievement. His work is not just about fighting for justice—it’s about building lasting systems of change.

His legacy is etched in the policies reformed, the lives uplifted, and the communities transformed. Kyev Tatum is, and always will be, a leader who leads with purpose and serves with passion.