Born and raised in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, Mark has roots tied in the church community and musical arenas. Matriculating through various music groups throughout his schooling (from jazz & concert bands, classical orchestras, to go-go and gospel bands alike) Mark has a well-rounded upbringing in music!
Mark has worked in public school education as a music teacher; a special subjects teacher; as a regional director for federally funded grant programs; and as a government contractor and executive director for non-profit and youth programs. Mark earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees and is currently pursuing a Ph.D, all in Communication studies. Mark is also an ordained reverend of the church.
In his downtime, he is a car enthusiast and enjoys watching the NBA. He currently resides in Prince George's County, MD with his 3 children.
Mark began piano musical studies at the age of 5 and progressed to play the clarinet, drum set, orchestral percussion, and his main instrument, the alto saxophone. His major musical training came from the DC Youth Orchestra Program. During high school, Mark was the president of the concert and jazz bands, and was the Drum Major for the marching band. Mark attended West Virginia State University where he was also the Drum Major for the marching band and performed in the concert and jazz Bands.
After teaching music in DC Public Schools for 5 years Mark migrated to the non-profit arena and now works in higher education. The highlights of Mark's music career include performing in Nashville, TN for a nationwide talent program; the famed Blues Alley Nightclub in Washington, DC.; and the World Famous Apollo Theatre in New York.
Prof. Tatum has been a career adjunct professor in Communication studies since 2013. He primarily teaches undergraduate Communication courses or Speech Communications, in 3 colleges in the MD area..
Prof. Tatum combines all his professional experience as the Board Chairman for Sun Gate Foundation; a community non-profit that provides educational scholarships to survivors of human trafficking.