If you live in Las Vegas, you are most likely familiar with local grinder Jeanne David.   If not, let me share why she is an excellent candidate for induction into the Women’s Poker Hall of Fame.

My first encounter with Mrs. David happened when I was still finding my footing in the poker world, and let’s say I wasn’t very skilled at the time. I participated in a mixed-games tournament during the Ladies International Poker Series at Green Valley Casino. It was immediately apparent who Jeanne was; her presence in the room made it clear that her peers admired her and feared her at the poker table.

When she approached me, she asked, in her unmistakable assertive New York manner, whether I could read. Slightly startled, I replied softly, “Yes.” She then produced a book, handed it to me, and instructed me to concentrate on the stud section. Little did I know then how significantly this woman would influence my journey.

Over time, Jeanne became a mentor to me and several other women, though she never did so in a formal way. She would organize casual lunches where she would seamlessly weave in poker coaching. She taught me critical strategies such as reading the clock, understanding table dynamics from a female perspective, proper bet sizing, and essential game elements H.O.R.S.E. She has an open-door policy to ask her anything about poker or life. She yells at me for using photo filters but tells me it is because I am fabulous the way I am. Her approach is always direct and could seem rigid as she likes things done correctly but is always done with love.

As I became more immersed in the poker industry, taking on various roles and traveling the globe, I discovered how modest Jeanne is. She never once shared her impressive resume. Instead, I learned about this remarkable woman and her contributions to the industry through interviews, articles, and conversations with her friends and colleagues.

Jeanne holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work, specializing in addiction. She applied her expertise as the Head of Responsible Gaming at PokerStars, the largest online gaming company. To take on this position, she relocated from the United States to the Isle of Man, where she played a crucial role in developing policies that protect players and promote fair play. Jeanne has been a strong advocate for players and the legalization of online poker, working tirelessly with legislators worldwide and even speaking before the Parliament of the Netherlands.

After retiring in 2021, Jeanne returned to Las Vegas, where she continued her advocacy for players and co-manages the esteemed H.O.R.S.E league, which showcases some of the best mixed-game competitors in the world. Remarkably, nearly 40% of the league’s participants are women, a rarity in most leagues, and the league’s focus on games beyond Texas Hold ’em makes this statistic even more impressive.

Jeanne sits on the Poker.org Player Advisory Board, was the inaugural guest on The Real Poker Girls Of Las Vegas Podcast, and was honored to be the first woman to host the Mixed Games Tournament at the Malta Poker Festival. I had the privilege of accompanying her to this event, where the enthusiasm she received in Europe was a testament to her dedication and hard work. Many of her peers traveled to support her.

On the trek back, we stopped in London, where one of her previous co-workers showed up to reminisce. They shared anecdotes and had a good laugh. Stealing from the United Kingdom, she will take the piss out of you. She has a killer sense of humor and is quick on her feet. Her wit, sarcasm, and playful banter are always entertaining, and her engaging personality is unmatched.

What’s even more astounding is that during our travels, Jeanne was just one-week post-heart surgery. Yet, this unstoppable woman didn’t let it hinder her. Her resilience and tenacity in facing challenges are inspirational, showing us all what can be achieved with determination and a positive mindset.

Jeanne’s achievements at the poker table are as noteworthy as her professional accolades. With nearly $250,000 in tournament winnings, an impressive 95% comes from Mixed Games. In 2018, she reached the final table of the $1500 WSOP Razz tournament, underscoring her skill and determination in one of the game’s most challenging formats.

Jeanne David is a true pioneer for women in poker, and her impact on the community is profound and multifaceted. Her legacy in the poker world, as a trailblazer for women in the game, continues to inspire and shape the industry for generations to come. We owe a great deal to Jeanne for her contributions to the game and her advocacy for women.

Vote For Jeanne David: https://womeninpokerhalloffame.com/2024-wiphof-ballot/