She Believed She Could So She DId

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.
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​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 becam… Read More