Women in Poker Hall of Fame: Honoring Trailblazers of 2024
Voting has officially opened for the Women in Poker Hall of Fame Class of 2024, showcasing eight outstanding nominees who embody the spirit of excellence in poker. Since its inception in 2008, the Hall of Fame has celebrated 25 extraordinary women who have excelled as players, contributed significantly to the poker industry, or both. These inspiring figures represent the evolution of poker and set an example for generations of women aspiring to make their mark in this competitive field.
The Voting Process
The voting mechanism is inclusive, allowing both media members and the general public to participate. Media and industry voting panel members are allotted 10 votes, which they can choose to distribute among multiple candidates or cast for a single nominee. Furthermore, public voting is highly encouraged, as many of these extraordinary women have served as inspirations to countless players.
Voting remains open until midnight PST on October 30, 2024, with the announcement of the Class of 2024 set for November and an Induction Celebration & Ceremony planned for December 11, 2024.
Nominations for the Class of 2024
Kristen Foxen
Kristen Foxen, also known as Kristen Bicknell, is a legendary figure in poker, known for her impressive four WSOP bracelets and more than $8.4 million in live tournament earnings. Her accomplishments include winning prestigious events like the $1,000 Ladies Championship in 2013 and the $888 NLHE Crazy 8’s online bracelet in 2023. In 2024, she finished an impressive 13th in the WSOP Main Event, further cementing her status as one of poker’s elite players.
Liv Boeree
Liv Boeree may have stepped back from professional poker in 2018, but she remains a prominent name with over $3.8 million in career earnings. She holds the unique distinction of winning a WSOP bracelet and an EPT Main Event. After her playing career, Boeree shifted her focus to education, promoting rational thinking and Effective Altruism through her role in Raising for Effective Giving.
Jeanne David
As a former head of responsible gaming for PokerStars, Jeanne David has made tremendous strides in advocating for responsible gaming legislation in the U.S. and Europe. Her commitment to promoting online poker legalization has had a lasting impact, particularly in states like Michigan and New Jersey. David’s passion for mixed games shines through her tournament success, with the majority of her cashes stemming from this format.
Jamie Kerstetter
A dual talent, Jamie Kerstetter is not only a skilled player with nearly $1 million in tournament earnings but also a beloved commentator. She has twice been awarded the Best Twitter Personality at the Global Poker Awards. Kerstetter is known for her unique accomplishments, including winning an online WSOP Circuit Ring while charging her phone in a restroom.
Kara Scott
Kara Scott is a multifaceted talent, seamlessly blending her roles as a TV personality, poker player, and journalist. With over $660,000 in tournament cashes, she has hosted numerous poker-related shows and written for various poker publications. Her dynamic presence has made her one of the most recognizable figures in the poker community.
Rebecca McAdam Willetts
Rebecca McAdam Willetts has been an advocate for women in poker, initiating several women-focused initiatives, including women-only boot camps. Notably, she founded QueenBHive, a PR firm aimed at supporting women-owned businesses in traditionally male-dominated fields, all while raising over $1.5 million for charity.
Annette Obrestad
Annette Obrestad, known for her phenomenal talent at a young age, became the youngest-ever bracelet winner at the 2007 WSOP Europe. Famous for her remarkable online prowess, she built her bankroll from playing freerolls and famously won a tournament without looking at her hole cards. Although she has shifted her focus in recent years, her legacy continues to inspire.
Jennifer Shahade
Jennifer Shahade is as versatile as they come, holding the title of Woman Grandmaster in chess while also making significant strides in poker. A MindSports Ambassador for PokerStars, she has successfully competed in both fields, bringing attention to the importance of women participating in traditionally male-dominated areas.
The Current Hall of Fame Inductees
The Class of 2024 inductees will join an esteemed group of 25 current members who have made a profound impact on the game of poker. Each of these inductees has played a pivotal role in inspiring future generations of players.
Hall of Fame Members Include:
- Linda Johnson (2008)
- Barbara Enright (2008)
- Susie Isaacs (2008)
- Maria Ho (2018)
- Vanessa Selbst (2022)
- Jennifer Tilly (2022)
As we celebrate the candidates for the Class of 2024, let’s acknowledge the immense contributions of these incredible women and the trail they blaze in the poker world. Whether you are a passionate poker player or simply someone who cherishes stories of trailblazing women making strides in male-dominated fields, supporting this initiative is an opportunity to honor their legacies and inspirations. Vote today and play your part in shaping the future of women in the poker industry.
