NEWS + INSIGHTS

A Legacy Built on Trusted Partnerships and Westchester Roots

As we turn the page to 2026, we are proud to mark a milestone that once seemed a lifetime away: 40 years of Thompson & Bender. What began in 1986 as a two-man operation in a small White Plains office has grown into a legacy we never could have imagined. Today, from our historic 1890 Victorian headquarters in Briarcliff Manor—our home since 1997—we take a moment to reflect on the milestones that shaped us.

Key Milestones

• 1986: A Leap of Faith—T&B’s story began when Geoff Thompson and Dean Bender left their careers at Gannett to enter the unpredictable world of agency life. With a vision for a firm that combined journalistic integrity with strategic marketing, Thompson & Bender was born. In those early days, there were no “Power 100” rankings—just a typewriter, a telephone, and relentless drive.
• 1990: The Power of Three—Elizabeth Bracken-Thompson joined as a partner, bringing the high-level strategic and creative thinking that allowed T&B to expand into a full-service agency.
• 2011: Silver Anniversary—Celebrating 25 years at the Ritz-Carlton, we were honored with a proclamation from the County Executive—a testament to our deep roots in the Westchester business community.
• 2026: 40 Years Strong—Entering our fourth decade with more momentum than ever, we have navigated everything from typewriters to AI-driven marketing. Recently named “Best in Business” by 914INC for the seventh consecutive year, and with Liz ranked #35 on the 2025 Westchester Power 100, our commitment to excellence continues to guide everything we do.

Looking Ahead

As we start this landmark year, our mission remains clear: to provide the most creative, strategic, and effective communications in the region. Thank you to our clients, our staff, and the Westchester community for being part of this incredible journey. Here’s to 40 years—and many more to come!