An Atlanta native who has been a teacher for 26 years, he holds a bachelor’s degree in history/education  from Maryville College, a master’s degree in secondary social studies education  from the  State University of West Georgia, and an  Ed.S. degree in educational administration  from Lincoln Memorial University. As former professional basketball player, Tu has also served for 17 years as head coach for boys and girls varsity basketball teams at multiple Atlanta-area high schools.