Tom Binford

Thomas Wyatt Wilson Binford (April 6, 1924 – January 14, 1999)^[2] was an Indianapolis-based entrepreneur and philanthropist. One of Indianapolis' most influential men, Thomas W. Binford, was a pioneer, visionary, and civil rights leader. He participated in civic, philanthropic, cultural, and political aspects of the city and state and was valued for his sensitivity, wise counsel, personal and financial support, and sincerity. In addition to his many personal interests, Binford spearheaded a group to buy the Indiana Pacers basketball team in 1975 and served as its president and general manager for one year. From 1974 to 1995, Binford served as the Chief Steward of the Indianapolis 500, presiding over its transition from United States Auto Club governance to Indy Racing League governance.^{[citation needed]}