Tom Burrell

Marketing communications pioneer Thomas J. Burrell is a recognized leader and change-agent credited with revolutionizing the use of positive and realistic images of African Americans in television advertising. His award-winning work acknowledged the purchasing power of the African American community and literally changed the face of American advertising.

Burrell founded Burrell Communications one of the largest multi-cultural marketing firms in the world. Started founded in 1971 by Tom Burrell and then Partner, Emmett McBain, the company was originally named Burrell McBain.

“Black people are not dark-skinned white people.” —Tom Burrell

Burrell is the founder of The Resolution Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to self-healing and self-actualization. In 2004, he was inducted into the Advertising Hall of Fame. A South side native, Burrell lives with his wife, Madeleine, in Chicago.