Walker Tatum, director of alumni engagement for the Marshall University Foundation, has been named one of West Virginia’s top young professionals as part of The State Journal’s “Generation Next: 40 Under 40” class of 2025.
The honor recognizes 40 dynamic individuals under age 40 who are making a lasting impact across the state. Tatum was selected from a competitive field of over 250 applicants for his leadership, community engagement and professional excellence.
“Walker is a rockstar who exudes the passion, skills and vision necessary to take our alumni efforts to the next level,” said Matt James, vice president of alumni relations for the Foundation. “He’s a natural connector who brings energy and purpose to everything he does.”
A proud son of Wayne, West Virginia, and a dedicated Marshall University graduate, Tatum is passionate about people, purpose and making things happen. Since stepping onto Marshall’s campus in 2020, he has been a driving force in student leadership and service. He held key positions, including student body vice president in 2022 and president in 2023, while also serving as vice chair of the West Virginia Advisory Council of Students and was the student representative on the Marshall University Board of Governors.
Tatum’s leadership extended far beyond titles. A fierce advocate for food security, he championed the Hunger-Free Campus Act, even testifying before the West Virginia Legislature. His efforts helped spur a major renovation of Marshall’s food pantry and thrift store — an initiative designed to support students facing food insecurity.
After graduating in 2024 with a degree in biological science, with minors in chemistry, business and pre-professional health care studies, Tatum chose to continue serving the Marshall community in a new capacity with his position at the Foundation.
In this role, Tatum now leads initiatives to connect with over 120,000 Marshall alumni worldwide. From launching mentorship programs like “Herd Connect” to building stronger alumni chapters and supporting major fundraising campaigns, his work is helping shape the next era of alumni engagement at Marshall.
Tatum is also the recipient of the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, a national award supporting undergraduate study abroad, and was recently recognized by State Treasurer Riley Moore for his leadership across higher education.
In true Marshall fashion, Tatum hasn’t forgotten where he came from — or who’s really in charge. He continues to live in Wayne, with his beloved Bernedoodle, Ziti, who keeps him humble and occasionally shows up on Zoom calls uninvited.
“I’m incredibly honored to be named to the 40 Under 40 list,” Tatum said. “This recognition is really a reflection of the mentors, students and colleagues who’ve poured into me over the years. I’m proud to be doing this work in West Virginia and for a university I love.”