Tom Skinner

Tom Skinner (June 6, 1942 – June 17, 1994) was an African-American evangelist and author. While a gang member in his youth, he later became a motivational speaker and advocate for racial reconciliation and leadership development. He was also a chaplain for the Washington Redskins of the National Football League (NFL) in the 1970s and 1980s. Skinner's work in ministry led to the establishment of the Tom Skinner Learning Center in Newark, New Jersey and the Skinner Farm Leadership Institute in Tracys Landing, Maryland.

Early life and education Skinner was born and raised in New York City. He grew up in a religious household, as the son of a minister, but he later became involved in street gangs during his youth. Eventually, Skinner renounced his gang activities and dedicated himself to the Christian faith and ministry. He attended public schools in Manhattan and later pursued higher education at Wagner College on Staten Island, where he earned a bachelor's degree. He continued his theological education at Manhattan Theological Seminary, earning a master's degree in theology.

Career Skinner began his career as an evangelist and motivational speaker, drawing upon his personal experiences to connect with diverse audiences, particularly young people. He was the president of Tom Skinner Associates, a ministry that focused on leadership training, reconciliation, and breaking down social, racial, and generational barriers. His organization operated the Tom Skinner Learning Center in Newark, New Jersey, which emphasized leadership development for both youth and adults, and the Skinner Farm Leadership Institute in Tracys Landing, Maryland, which provided similar programs in a rural setting.

Skinner was politically left of center, often criticizing racism and societal "oppression", which caused some controversy when he spoke to largely white evangelical audiences. His keynote address at the Urbana '70 conference is often cited as a prime example of his radical calls for social action.

In addition to his work through Tom Skinner Associates, Skinner was the chaplain for the Washington Redskins football team during the 1970s and 1980s. He died at Norfolk General Hospital in Norfolk, Virginia. In attendance at his funeral were notable African-American leaders including Maya Angelou, Louis Farrakhan, Dick Gregory, Les Brown, and Betty Shabazz, along with members of Congress and professional football players.

Legacy Skinner's archives, including an oral history from 1990, are held at the Wheaton College Library.

Publications Black and Free, Zondervan Publishing House (1968). How Black is the Gospel?, Holman Publishing (1970). Words of Revolution: A Call to Involvement in the Real Revolution, Zondervan Publishing House (1970). If Christ is the Answer, What are the Questions?, Zondervan Publishing House (1974).