Jim Tatum Honored at Crowder College
September 3, 2009
James Tatum has a passion for education and Crowder College. In the presence of
Crowder staff, family and friends Mr. Tatum was recognized by his fellow board
members for his many years of service to Crowder College and his dedication to
servant leadership. A bronze bust of Mr. Tatum was unveiled at the ceremony and will
be on permanent display in the lobby of the Arnold Farber Building, located on the main
Crowder College campus in Neosho, MO.
Mr. Tatum's interest in education started long before Crowder College was even a
dream. After moving back to Anderson, MO, after serving in the Army during the Korean
War, Mr. Tatum served eight years on the McDonald County School Board. Now, in his
46th year with Crowder College, Mr. Tatum is the longest serving community college
Trustee in the nation.
Mr. Tatum is a true advocate for lifelong learning, servant leadership, and the
community college movement in general. His desire to learn more about trusteeship
took him to the 2nd national meeting of the Council of Community College Boards
(CCCB) in New Orleans in 1971. In 1972, CCCB became the Association of Community
College Trustees (ACCT) which he is a member of today. This was only the beginning
of his involvement with ACCT, serving as chair from 1979-1980. He was the 1979
recipient of the M. Dale Ensign Trustees award presented by ACCT. Mr. Tatum also
spent many years as consultant for community colleges across the country, facilitating
over 150 retreats and leading nearly 100 presidential searches.
The accomplishments of Mr. Tatum are a testament to character and passion for
education. He has devoted countless hours to serving Crowder College in the true spirit
of a servant leader. "He is the reason we are servant leaders at Crowder College"
stated Andy Wood, Board President, during the recognition ceremony.