Tom Brown Presented with 2024 President’s Award
Each year, the past presidents of the McPherson Chamber select the President’s Award winner, to recognize an individual for their valuable contribution and long-term impact on the McPherson business community. The 2024 President’s Award was presented to Mayor Tom Brown at the McPherson Chamber’s annual banquet October 22nd.
Tom Brown’s bio has a long list of extensive education, certifications and other designations that he obtained through the years, building his knowledge and expertise to thrive in the insurance and financial field, including an M.B.A. from the University of Colorado.
Tom served in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1969. He was an officer, company commander, and executive officer in Vietnam and liaison officer to staff of General Glick in Okinawa. Tom medically retired in 1969 due to wounds in Vietnam. He graciously shared his story during the Chamber banquet, and it was one to remember.
In 1970, Tom started his work in the Insurance Industry out in Colorado, later moving to McPherson and working at Farmers Alliance Mutual Insurance Company from 1979-1997. During this time, he had the opportunity for several speaking engagements to share his knowledge of the insurance industry.
In 1997, Tom started a consulting firm called Savant Services, through which he has worked with numerous insurance companies throughout the United States in both strategic planning and board governance issues. Through his company, Savant Services, Tom has assisted BPU in developing a strategic plan, assisted McPherson County and also Marion County in developing individual 3-year strategic plans to enhance economic development, continue expansion of various tax bases and opportunities for state and federal funding. Tom has also assisted the McPherson Chamber of Commerce – Affordable Housing Committee by researching twenty municipalities across the United States as to existing Affordable Housing Programs. He worked to develop a partnership between public and private groups throughout the county including the eight municipalities, the County government, and private businesses.
Tom Brown has been the Mayor of McPherson since 2009 and is highly regarded by elected officials across the state, not to mention citizens of the community.
Tom has been actively involved in numerous boards and committees over his career, being a part of decision making and change making with his board involvement with McPherson Hospital, The Cedars, Regional Economic Area Partnership, ex officio roles and more.
Too many of us take for granted the progress we see in our community without realizing all the months, and often years of planning and efforts it takes to accomplish positive results. This list of community involvement, service to our country, and all the extra effort Tom is willing to give, truly emphasizes a servant life, “a life of living to serve others, sacrificing for their joy, and following God’s will.” Thank you, and congratulations!
