Alfred Tatum

Alfred W. Tatum, Ph.D., is a Professor in the School of Education at Metropolitan State University of Denver. He specializes in literacy development, particularly for African American males, and has authored four influential books including the award-winning Teaching Reading to Black Adolescent Males: Closing the Achievement Gap. His research focuses on advancing reading, writing, and intellectual growth across disciplines.

Dr. Tatum holds a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois Chicago. Prior to his current role, he served as Dean of the College of Education at the University of Illinois at Chicago (2013–2020) and directed the UIC Reading Clinic (2007–2020). He pioneered initiatives such as the Post-Release Education and Preparation programs for at-risk youth, redirecting them from incarceration toward educational support.

His work emphasizes closing literacy gaps and fostering equity in education. Current efforts include leading MSU Denver’s Literacy Research Center and Clinic, addressing Colorado’s K-3 reading challenges through family-focused interventions.