Tom Patterson has had a sustained impact on tennis at all levels. For decades he has played an important and continuing role in Chicago tennis, volunteering with many different tennis organizations and serving on multiple tennis organization Boards. Tom served for over 10 years on the CDTA Board, and was named President in 1997-1998. He also served as President of the Chicago Tennis Patrons in 2001-2002, and currently sits on the Board of the Patrons and Love To Serve, Inc. At the Midwest Section level, Tom received a 20 year Volunteer Service Award in 2011. He acted as Chair of numerous Midwest committees, helped develop the Midwest Tennis Volunteer Corp and succeeded in adapting the on-line Committee Appointment Process (CAPS). Tom served on the National USTA Membership Committee and is currently appointed to the National Awards Committee. As a certified USTA Official, Tom was a trainer for USTA Officials locally, umpired at 23 US Open tournaments, served as Chief Umpire of World Team Tennis, and Referee for the Nuveen Professional Tennis Tour. In 1990, Tom received the Midwest Frank Dowling Award, and in 1996 received the CDTA/CTP Tennis Official of the Year Award. Tom is an exemplar of the person who contributes greatly to the game across the broadest possible range. He has improved the play of individuals, the experience of the tennis audience, improved the dignity, integrity and guarded the great traditions of the game. Tom has broadened the appeal of the game to young kids who might never have walked on a court.