Written by: JR Robinson

In a city defined by its resilience and rich history, Memphis is experiencing a new wave of leadership-one that is rooted in service, integrity, and a relentless drive to uplift the next generation. At the heart of this movement stands Tamarques Porter, a proud native son of Orange Mound, a Melrose High School graduate, and now a member of the Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) Board of Directors for District 4. His journey from local student to technology specialist, mentor, and elected leader is not just a personal achievement; it’s a testament to what Memphis needs from its men, fathers, leaders, and mentors: men who live by example, raise the bar, and decide to be the change they want to see.

Who Is Tamarques Porter?

Tamarques Porter’s story is one of deep Memphis roots and a commitment to community empowerment. Born and raised in Orange Mound, Porter’s early experiences shaped his understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Memphis youth. After graduating from Melrose High School, he attended Texas Southern University, then earned a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and a Master of Science in Technology Management from the University of Phoenix. Today, Porter works as an Information Technology Specialist with the U.S. Department of Treasury, where he leverages his expertise in technology to drive positive social impact.

But Porter’s professional journey is only part of the story. His dedication to service is evident in his work with the Tennessee Higher Education Prison Initiative, advocating for educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals, and his long-standing role as a mentor in Dr. Clifford Black’s Super Learning Literacy Class. There, he empowers students with essential language and computer literacy skills, a passion he now shares with his own sons, who attend the same class that once inspired him.

Why Did He Run for School Board?

For Porter, running for the MSCS Board was never about personal ambition-it was about purpose. “I’m tired of hearing the excuses,” he says. “Black people learned when we didn’t have books. But it’s not about lecturing and finger-pointing. I ran before and lost. What I learned is to listen more. People have told me we need that strong black male voice and experience but with the right attitude. We’re not trying to lead people; we’re trying to represent them, their voice. You can’t have a solution before you know the problem. Listen to our teachers and follow up with them to find the solutions.”

Porter’s campaign was built on listening-to parents, teachers, students, and community members. He understood that District 4, which covers the Riverdale and Hickory Hill areas, needed a representative who would show up, care deeply, and fight for real change. As a father with children in the district, Porter’s investment is personal. “I just turned 40 years old, I have children in school, and the parents I met could relate to me,” he shared after his election. He knew that to restore hope and opportunity, especially in neighborhoods scarred by violence and neglect, he needed to be present, visible, and accountable.

Standing Up for What’s Right: The Fight for Dr. Marie Feagins

Porter’s leadership was quickly put to the test with the arrival of Dr. Marie Feagins as the new superintendent of MSCS. When controversy and opposition arose around Dr. Feagins’ appointment, Porter did not shy away from the challenge. He stood up and fought for Dr. Feagins-not out of political expediency, but because he knew, on every level, that what was being done was wrong.

His willingness to speak out and advocate for fairness and integrity, even when it meant standing alone, set Porter apart as a leader who puts principle before politics. This courage to do what is right, rather than what is easy, is exactly what Memphis needs from its leaders.

Bringing the Community Together: Town Hall Meetings and Youth Empowerment

Porter’s vision for change goes beyond boardroom decisions. He is actively hosting town hall meetings across District 4, creating spaces for honest dialogue, collaboration, and community problem-solving. These gatherings are more than just forums-they are opportunities for residents to share their concerns, ask questions, and work together on solutions that will benefit students and families.

Porter is especially focused on pouring into Memphis’ youth. He knows that to break the cycle of violence and underachievement, young people must see that adults care about them and are willing to invest in their futures. “You just show them that you care. Show them pathways to a better life. Children must know you care about them and are always there for them. They must see us. And don’t sugarcoat it. You must tell them, ‘You know how this life usually turns out. Is this how you want to raise a family?’ We must create strategies and plans to get the message to them.”

Through mentorship, advocacy, and direct engagement, Porter is helping young people realize their potential and envision brighter futures.

Raising the Bar: What Memphis Needs from Its Men

Tamarques Porter’s example challenges Memphis to expect more from its men, fathers, leaders, and mentors. He is not content to watch from the sidelines or simply criticize the status quo. Instead, he has chosen to lead by example-raising the bar for himself and everyone around him.

He believes that leadership is not about titles or accolades, but about service, accountability, and a willingness to do the hard work of change. Porter’s approach is rooted in humility and empathy; he listens before he acts, seeks understanding before offering solutions, and always centers the needs of students and families.

His story is a call to action for Memphis men to step up-to be present in their children’s lives, to mentor the next generation, to advocate for justice and equity, and to build stronger communities through collective effort.

The InfoHUB: A Tool for Service and Transparency

Understanding the importance of communication and transparency, Porter has introduced the InfoHUB for District 4-a digital resource designed to keep constituents informed, engaged, and empowered. The InfoHUB provides updates on school board decisions, community events, educational resources, and opportunities for involvement. By leveraging technology, Porter is making it easier for families to stay connected and for their voices to be heard.

You can explore the InfoHUB and see how Porter is using innovation to serve his district at District 4 InfoHUB.

Deciding to Be the Change

Tamarques Porter’s journey is a powerful reminder that change begins with a decision-a decision to care, to show up, to listen, and to act. He embodies the qualities Memphis needs most in this moment: integrity, courage, empathy, and a relentless commitment to lifting others up.

As Memphis faces complex challenges and seeks a brighter future for its children, Porter’s leadership offers a blueprint for what is possible when men choose to lead with purpose and passion. He is not just representing District 4; he is raising the bar for the entire city, showing that when we decide to be the change we want to see, we can transform our communities-one student, one family, one neighborhood at a time.

For more on Tamarques Porter’s work and to stay connected with District 4 initiatives, visit the District 4 InfoHUB.