Burwell Family Genealogy & History

Carter Benedict Burwell, born on November 18, 1954, in New York City, is a renowned American film composer. Known for his frequent collaborations with the Coen brothers, Burwell has scored many of their films, as well as works by directors like Todd Haynes and Martin McDonagh. He received Academy Award nominations for Best Original Score for films such as "Carol" (2015), "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri" (2017), and "The Banshees Of Inisherin" (2022). Burwell's extensive filmography includes iconic scores for movies like "Twilight," "The Blind Side," and "In Bruges." His achievements also encompass awards from institutions like the ASCAP and the Los Angeles Film Critics Association.

Carter Burwell was born to Natalie (née Benedict), a math teacher, and Charles Burwell, founder of Thaibok Fabrics, Ltd. Raised in New York City, he later graduated from King School in Stamford, Connecticut, and Harvard College. Burwell's family background and education have likely influenced his diverse artistic pursuits and successful career in film composition.

Sylvia Mathews Burwell is a prominent American executive and public servant known for her roles in government and non-profit sectors. As the 15th president of American University, she made history as the institution's first female leader. Burwell's career highlights include serving as the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services and as Director of the Office of Management and Budget under President Barack Obama. Her work with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Walmart's charitable foundation underscores her commitment to combating global poverty and hunger. Burwell's expertise in policy and economic matters has been a significant asset throughout her career.

Born and raised in Hinton, West Virginia, Sylvia Mathews Burwell comes from a family with deep community ties. Her mother, Cleo Mathews, was both a teacher and Hinton's mayor, while her father, Dr. William Peter Mathews, was an optometrist and presided over the local Episcopal Church. Her grandparents emigrated from Greece, owning a sweet shop in Hinton. Burwell's family background reflects a blend of service, education, and immigrant roots, influencing her path in public service and leadership.

James Burwell, known as Jim B. or Jimmy B., was a pivotal figure in the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) on the East Coast. As one of the first ten members, he played a crucial role in establishing AA in Philadelphia and Baltimore and later promoted its growth in San Diego. Burwell's significant contribution was advocating for the inclusion of the "Higher Power" concept, making AA more accessible to non-believers. His efforts helped secure national attention through a landmark Saturday Evening Post article in 1941, and he was instrumental in defining AA's Third Tradition, emphasizing a desire to stop drinking as the sole membership requirement.

Lois Burwell, born in 1960, is a renowned British makeup artist celebrated for her Oscar-winning work in the film industry. She gained international acclaim by winning the Best Makeup Oscar at the 68th Academy Awards for "Braveheart," alongside Peter Frampton and Paul Pattison. Additionally, Burwell earned a second Academy Award nomination for her work on "Saving Private Ryan." Known for her frequent collaborations with Steven Spielberg, she has contributed her expertise to numerous films, including "The BFG," "Lincoln," and "The Last Samurai." Burwell holds esteemed positions within the industry, having been elected the Governor for the Makeup Artists and Hair Stylists branch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and later becoming the Academy's first Vice President.