Thomas Chatman is a graduate of Augsburg College in Minneapolis, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Coaching. Over the course of 18 years, he dedicated himself to educating, mentoring and empowering youth across several metro-area school districts. His leadership helped launch initiatives like the High Achiever’s course, which encouraged underrepresented students to pursue advanced placement classes and prepare for college success. During his tenure, Chatman also served in the Office of Educational Equity, where he became a tireless advocate for students and families. He worked closely with educators and staff to implement best practices that fostered inclusive, equitable learning environments. His commitment to educational equity left a lasting impact on countless classrooms and communities throughout the twin cities metro area.

Following a decorated basketball career, Thomas became known as “Coach TC”—a mentor who seamlessly transitioned from player to coach. His passion for developing well-rounded athletes led him to the YMCA, where he was recruited to build a sports and mentorship department from the ground up. Coach TC assembled and trained a dynamic team of coaches and mentors, helping to
elevate the YMCA’s youth sports programs to national prominence. Under his leadership, the program grew to serve over 20,000 youth, and his innovative approach continues to shape YMCA programming today. His legacy is one of empowerment, excellence, and unwavering belief in the potential of young people—on and off the court.

In his current role as Health Educator at Ramsey County, Coach TC has embraced a new challenge: leading the centering fathers movement around birth equity. Drawing on his diverse skill set, he fosters inclusive, authentic dialogue and community engagement that brings fathers into spaces where they’ve historically not been heard. His work is helping to reshape the narrative—highlighting the vital role fathers play in supporting maternal health and reducing birth disparities. By inviting fathers into the fold, Coach TC is building bridges of connection, compassion, and shared responsibility that lighten the load for mothers, strengthen families.