Tom Dorsey's Odyssey
In 1987, Tom co-founded Dorsey, Wright & Associates (DWA) with Watson Wright. Under Tom's visionary leadership, DWA achieved significant milestones, including launching the first Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) based solely on technical analysis. The PowerShares DWA Technical Leaders premiered on the New York Stock Exchange on March 1, 2004. This would be the first of numerous ETFs that DWA would launch over the next decade. This growth in assets under management would culminate in DWA being acquired by the NASDAQ for $225 million in 2015. This would further cement Tom's legacy in the world of finance.
Tom has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the 1999-2000 Alumnus of the Year for the VCU School of Business, the Public Service Award from Governor Charles Robb for his work with inmates at the Virginia State Penitentiary, and the Distinguished Speaker Award from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Finance. Additionally, he served on the Board of Advisors for the Philadelphia Stock Exchange.
Tom has three grown children and five grandchildren. He has been married to his wife, Cindy, for 46 years. A prolific author, he has written seven books, including three best-sellers on finance and technical analysis.
His interests extend far beyond finance. As a young man Tom held a pilot's license. Later in life he was licensed to fly hot air balloons. An avid motorcyclist, he and Cindy toured the southwest on multiple occasions. Tom holds a AAU world record in power-lifting as well as national and state records in the sport. Tom's life is a testament to dedication, innovation and diverse interests.
