When an event only happens once every two years, it’s usually thought of as something pretty special. This summer, the Women In Poker Hall of Fame (WiPHoF) will once again open its doors to induct a new class of deserving honorees. Since its founding in 2008, just 19 women have been selected for admission, with new inductees joining WiPHoF’s ranks in even numbered years since 2012. Begun with the goal of highlighting with distinction women who have made significant contributions to the world of poker, the Women in Poker Hall of Fame continues today as an institution dedicated to enhancing the awareness and celebrating the contributions and achievements of women in poker.
The organization’s nomination process is open to the public. In order to qualify for nomination a candidate must possess three primary attributes:
- Have been active as a player or industry leader for a minimum of 10 years prior to election and 35 yrs of age or older.
- Have contributed to the world of poker in some significant way. This person can qualify by either winning major poker tournaments, or by making significant contributions to the industry of poker.
- Be a proponent of women in poker.
If you feel there’s a woman out there deserving of induction to the WiPHoF, you are welcome to submit their candidacy here (you have until March 15th).
READ MORE: Why Don’t More Women Play Poker? Leading Poker Ladies Unite for Change
WiPHoF Voting
Once the nominees have been properly vetted, votes will be cast by current WiPHoF members as well as a panel of poker media members, of which we are proud to be a part. Each of us receives 10 votes, which we can spread out amongst those on the ballot or, alternatively, choose to cast in favor of one single nominee.
The top two vote-getters from amongst the nominees on the ballot will be selected for induction. As in years past, the induction ceremony will take place in Las Vegas during the World Series of Poker, with this year’s luncheon taking place on Tuesday, June 26th at 11am at the Orleans Casino.
Who Is Getting Our Vote(s)?
At the present time, there’s no official list of nominees on the ballot, as nominations are still being sent in. There was one immediate name that popped into my mind and I imagine I won’t be the only one nominating her for consideration. I look forward to seeing which illustrious women will have been deemed worthy of consideration once all the nominations have been submitted.
Last time around, I cast all 10 of my votes for Victoria Coren Mitchell, who ended up being one of the two 2016 inductees. Will I act similarly once again? Let’s first see whose names end up appearing on the final ballot!