Tatum ’03 visits Wabash to discuss career in law and the Church
Law can be a cutthroat business – but Josh Tatum ’03, a partner at Plews Shadley Racher & Braun LLP in Indianapolis, tends to lean towards a merciful lifestyle.
“I am a church goer in a lawyer’s suit,” said Tatum.
Tatum visited Wabash on November 5 to discuss his career following Wabash and Vanderbilt Law School. His experience is vast and impressive, and his resume includes working with businesses, faith communities and nonprofit organizations. He has experience with constitutional law, employment issues, insurance, healthcare and complex appellate cases. Over his years as a lawyer, he has advocated in more than 100 appeals across state, federal and the U.S. Supreme Court.
Current Wabash students interested in the intersections between divinity and law benefited from hearing Tatum’s experience.
“Hearing from Wabash alumni who are lawyers has really motivated me to continue to work hard,” said Pre-Law Society President Chris Runyon ’26. “Having Josh Tatum as a guest speaker to talk about his work as a lawyer for religious organizations was something right up my alley.”
During the event, Tatum reflected on his most memorable cases, including one with a dispute in a Sikh temple over leadership elections – a case that dealt with the boundaries between civil law and religious autonomy, which many pre-law students could relate to the PSC-315 Religious Freedoms course offered for prospective lawyers.
Events like Tatum’s visit are a great example of the strength of Wabash’s Pre-Law network and the value of alumni who continue to invest in the next generation of Wabash students.
Tatum’s passion for both law and community remains rooted in Indiana where his journey began, and where he continues to make a lasting impact.