Thomas E. Brown, PhD, was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, renowned psychologist, and one of the most influential voices in the modern understanding of ADHD.

Over the course of five decades, Dr. Brown transformed how the world sees ADHD–—not simply as a disorder of attention, but as a complex challenge of executive functioning. His tremendous contributions to the field of ADHD include developing the widely used Brown Executive Function/Attention Rating Scales, authoring seven books, publishing more than thirty peer-reviewed articles, serving as an elected fellow of the American Psychological Association, receiving Knox College’s Distinguished Alumni Award, and receiving CHADD's Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024 in recognition of his groundbreaking clinical work, research, and advocacy.

Dr. Brown had a profound impact not only on countless colleagues and patients, but also a global community of scholars, clinicians, students, and families. His legacy as a dedicated and kind leader in the field endures both in the people he affected and in the field he helped shape.

The Dr. Thomas E. Brown Memorial Fund will carry forward his legacy by supporting CHADD’s core mission: evidence-based resources, trusted help and support, and unwavering advocacy for the 22 million children and adults across the United States with ADHD.

With your support, we hope this fund will grow into a lasting endowment that reflects Dr. Brown’s lifelong commitment to helping individuals with ADHD live fuller, more empowered lives. This initiative will begin with the CHADD Young Scientist Award, newly renamed The Dr. Thomas E. Brown Pioneer Award. The award is given annually during the International Conference on ADHD to two young researchers who are helping to advance our knowledge of ADHD.