
If you’re a professional rising to success, you may have received a letter, email, or LinkedIn InMail about being considered for Marquis Who’s Who. You may have wondered: What is Marquis Who’s Who, and what does it mean to be included? Don’t worry, we won’t hold it against you.
For over 126 years, Marquis Who’s Who has been the leading biographical publisher, highlighting accomplished professionals across industries. From our earliest days as a printed reference book to today’s online biographical database and professional branding guide, our mission has remained the same: to recognize and preserve the stories of leaders, innovators, and high achievers across America.
The History of Marquis Who's Who
Founded in 1898, Marquis Who’s Who began as a biographical publishing company created by Albert Nelson Marquis. The first edition of Who’s Who in America was released in 1899, serving as a trusted directory of notable figures across the nation.
Before the internet, our flagship publication was the most reliable place to learn about the nation’s most successful people. Known as “the big red book”, Who’s Who in America included detailed information on everyone who was anyone – from celebrities and authors to executives and community leaders.
Today, more than 126 years later, Marquis Who’s Who continues that legacy. Our publications are found in libraries across the United States, and our digital resource, Marquis Biographies Online, is used by journalists, recruiters, and students who seek accurate, vetted information about notable professionals.

How Marquis Who's Who Selects Listees
Not just anyone can be included in our publications. To become a Marquis Who’s Who listee, individuals must pass a strict selection and vetting process designed to identify esteemed professionals making waves in their industries. This vetting process includes:
- Research Team Review – Our team identifies prospective listees through professional listings, news sources, and industry achievements.
- Peer Nominations – Candidates may also be nominated anonymously by our existing listees.
- Verification Interview – If a candidate passes the initial vetting, they must complete a short interview with a submissions director to confirm their credentials and make a final decision.
This strict selection process ensures that only the most accomplished professionals are selected for inclusion, keeping our registry full of only the best and brightest.
Why Being in Marquis Who's Who Matters
Becoming a part of Marquis Who’s Who is more than just recognition. Inclusion is a mark of professional excellence. Becoming a Marquis Who’s Who listee is a privilege reserved for those who have made a lasting impact in their fields.
As a listee, professionals gain:
- Prestige and Recognition – Listees are held among the ranks of the nation’s most prestigious professionals, a coveted honor.
- Personal Branding Support – Listees are afforded access to a branding representative and a branding suite aimed at enhancing their exposure.
- Networking and Legacy – A permanent place in an over 126-year-old tradition of honoring achievement.
Frequently Asked Questions about Marquis Who's Who
What is Marquis Who’s Who?
Marquis Who’s Who is a biographical publisher established in 1898 that recognizes accomplished professionals across industries. Our flagship volume, Who’s Who in America, has been published for over 126 years.
How does Marquis Who’s Who Select Listees?
Candidates are identified by a research team, nominated by existing listees, and vetted through a credential verification process that includes a short interview.
Is Marquis Who’s Who Legitimate?
Yes. Marquis Who’s Who has been in continuous publication for over a century. Its volumes are housed in libraries nationwide, and its online database is widely used by journalists, researchers, and recruiters. There is no charge to be included nor is there any purchase required. What a listee chooses to make of their acceptance is entirely up to them.
Who is Listed in Marquis Who’s Who?
Listees include leaders, innovators, and professionals from every industry, including business executives, scientists, educators, artists, authors, and community leaders.
As Marquis Who’s Who marks over 126 years of honoring achievement, our mission remains the same: to recognize, preserve, and share the stories of professionals who make a lasting impact on the world around them. From our earliest printed volumes to today’s digital platforms, we continue to evolve with the times while staying true to our purpose: celebrating excellence across every industry. Inclusion in Marquis Who’s Who is more than a recognition; it is a testament to a life’s work and a place in history among the nation’s most accomplished leaders.