Deacon Spotlight: Stephen Tatum
Stephen Tatum (2005, BA in History)
General Counsel & Government Affairs, Tarrant Regional Water District in Fort Worth, TX
Tell us about your current job role and employer. What are you currently working on?
I’m the in-house counsel and head of government relations for one of the largest raw water suppliers in Texas. We own and operate four major reservoirs, and we provide raw water, flood control, and recreation to millions of people in North Texas. I handle all things legal at the District, and I ensure our legislative priorities are accomplished at the state and federal level.
What key personal and/or career experiences led you to where you are today?
(1) Starting my career in and around the Texas State Capitol in Austin, (2) learning to write and speak clearly and concisely, and (3) being kind to everyone I’ve met along the way.
What is the most challenging aspect of your job? How do you navigate that challenge?
Every single day brings new issues big and small. You have to recognize when you must be the generalist vs. the technician, when to prioritize, and when to delegate.
What advice would you give to Wake Forest graduates about developing their personal life habits after college (finances, health, values, work/life balance)?
Ha! I didn’t really develop good personal life habits until my late 20s and early 30s, and I wish I hadn’t waited so late. So start working on those things as early as you can. Also, listen to your gut. You know yourself better than anyone else, so don’t ignore your instincts. They’re usually right.
We know that relationships are important for any kind of development. How do you build and maintain your network?
Organically. I don’t force it. Just be nice to everyone you meet along the way. You never know who will be in a position to help you and/or your career down the line.
Tell us about your mentoring relationships. What impact have these relationships had on your career and life?
I’ve been fortunate to have great bosses everywhere I’ve worked. I don’t think I could work for anyone who wasn’t invested in my growth.
What advice would you give to current Wake Forest students and/or young alumni who are interested in working in your industry?
My employer’s work is very heavy in science and engineering, two areas in which I have no formal education or training. If I could go back in time and get an engineering degree in addition to a law degree, I would be so much better at my job. I don’t know what our people are saying half the time. It’s like another language with a million different acronyms.
What’s next for your career? What future goals or plans are you pursuing?
I honestly don’t know. I’m just trying to keep it between the mayonnaise and the mustard every day.
Story published in March 2026. For current updates about Stephen, visit his LinkedIn profile.