Our Story

Founders: Susan P. and Frank T. (Tom) Silliman

In October 1979, Susan P. and Frank T. (Tom) Silliman founded Thomas Silliman Associates with a simple but powerful vision: to build meaningful, lasting relationships between premier resorts and the Association market — a vision that continues to guide the company today, as we expand into more markets.

Both Susan and Tom came from ranching families in Texas, their mothers’ friends long before their paths ever crossed. It wasn’t until both moved to New York that fate — and some motherly encouragement — brought them together. Susan was living at the famed Barbizon Hotel for Women, studying art and pursuing her creative passions alongside future icons like Liza Minnelli and Grace Kelly. Tom, after graduating from the University of Texas at his parents’ insistence, had come to New York at the invitation of Ernest Henderson, Chairman of Sheraton Hotels, where he earned degrees and certifications in hotel management and even shared a memorable dinner at Mr. Henderson’s home in Boston.

Introduced through family connections, Susan and Tom quickly discovered a shared spirit of ambition and warmth, leading to marriage and the start of a remarkable partnership. While Susan developed her career as an accomplished artist, Tom found his calling in hospitality sales and marketing, beginning with Robert F. Warner Hotel Marketers. Recognizing the tremendous opportunity within the growing Association market — then the third largest economic force behind government and tourism — Tom had the foresight to establish a first-of-its-kind firm, dedicated to connecting distinguished resorts with this important audience.

Rather than seeking rapid growth or global fame, Susan and Tom stayed true to their roots, building Thomas Silliman Associates steadily and thoughtfully, always prioritizing service, relationships, and integrity above all else. Tom, especially, has preferred to stay behind the scenes since the mid-1990s, entrusting a loyal and seasoned team to carry forward the company’s mission.

Today, Thomas Silliman Associates remains the premier resort representation company in the country, a testament to the vision, humility, and values that Susan and Tom instilled from the beginning. Their legacy lives on in every relationship we build and every client we serve.

While we may be smaller than some of our competitors, our size is our strength — it allows us to stay nimble, build deeper relationships, and provide highly personalized service to every client. At the same time, we’re growing with intention. We’re expanding into new territories and preparing to increase our team, ensuring we scale thoughtfully without losing the quality and attention to detail that set us apart from the start.

As we grow, our mission remains the same: to deliver exceptional service, foster genuine connections, and always go the extra mile—no matter our size.