Honoring a Pioneer: Rebecca McAdam Willetts and Her Nomination to the Women in Poker Hall of Fame
Poker has a long and rich history, deeply rooted in strategy, skill, and the vibrant personalities that bring it to life. Among those personalities is Rebecca McAdam Willetts, an industry veteran who has not only championed the game but has also been instrumental in promoting diversity and inclusion within the poker community. Recently, McAdam Willetts received a prestigious nomination for induction into the Women in Poker Hall of Fame, celebrating her remarkable contributions and dedication to the sport.
A Surprising Nomination
Upon receiving the news of her nomination, McAdam Willetts was taken aback. "I had no idea," she admitted in a conversation with PokerNews. The first message she opened came from Lance Bradley, who celebrated her nomination with heartfelt words. This wave of support from friends and industry peers, including notable figures like Francine Watson and Jen Shahade, filled her with joy.
"I’ve spent so long promoting the game and other brands that I’ve had to get comfortable promoting myself," McAdam Willetts remarked, reflecting on the honor and the process of self-recognition.
Career Reflections: From Player to Advocate
Rebecca McAdam Willetts’s journey in the poker world is nothing short of inspiring. Starting her career as a player, she transitioned to roles as a poker reporter and presenter, laying the groundwork for her future innovations. Throughout her career, McAdam Willetts has worked tirelessly to elevate the poker community, recognizing its potential for growth and engagement.
"I’ve never seen myself as not part of the community," she remarked, underlining her dedication to bridging different aspects of the game—presenting, journalism, and organizational operations. This multifaceted experience has allowed her to promote poker authentically and to create initiatives that resonate within the broader community.
Having led the PR efforts at PokerStars, McAdam Willetts successfully engaged diverse audiences through compelling storytelling, partnerships, and marketing innovations. "I’ve spent decades trying to keep the fire burning in poker," she explained. Her strategic focus on community stories rather than mere advertisements has enabled her to foster an environment where poker is celebrated for its richness and complexity.
Champions of Charity and the Community
McAdam Willetts’s resilience and creativity particularly shone during the COVID-19 pandemic. Faced with unprecedented challenges, she took the initiative to support the community by hiring live event dealers for customer support and organizing the Stars Call for Action charity event, which raised over $1 million for those affected by the crisis. The event showcased 90 celebrities playing poker in a unique format, uniting the community for a noble cause.
"It was madness!" she exclaimed, recalling the event’s success, which featured celebrities joining in solely for charity. McAdam Willetts’s efforts during this time not only provided crucial financial support but also reinforced the solidarity within the poker community.
Fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
One of the standout features of Rebecca McAdam Willetts’s career is her unwavering commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within poker. She has led initiatives targeting women’s participation in the industry and sought to create safe and welcoming environments for everyone involved in the game.
"I’ve done an awful lot for women who work and play in the industry," she noted, while emphasizing her broader efforts to uplift the entire poker community. Through educational programs, partnerships, and community-driven projects, McAdam Willetts has created opportunities and fostered engagement among diverse groups within poker.
Her leadership efforts encompass promotional campaigns for online and live events, sponsorships, and innovative initiatives like the Platinum Pass giveaways, which have delighted players and elevated community experience. By prioritizing transparency and inclusivity, McAdam Willetts has reshaped how the poker industry interacts with its diverse audience.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Poker
As McAdam Willetts contemplates her future, her passion for poker remains steadfast. Having recently founded QueenBHive, a public relations and marketing company that supports women-owned brands, she continues to break new ground.
Regarding her recent entrepreneurial venture, she expressed enthusiasm and determination, stating, “If my career as a whole has shown me one thing, it’s that you don’t have to ever compromise your values and principles to make progress or be successful.”
Her belief in calculated risks and sacrifice highlights the ethos that has guided her career—from making significant strides in the poker industry to supporting burgeoning women-owned businesses in a traditionally male-dominated landscape.
Conclusion
Rebecca McAdam Willetts’s nomination to the Women in Poker Hall of Fame represents not just a personal triumph, but a beacon of hope for aspiring poker professionals and advocates of diversity. Her unwavering commitment to the community, pioneering spirit, and genuine love for the game make her a deserving candidate. As she continues her journey, McAdam Willetts remains a role model for not only women in poker but for all who seek to challenge norms and make a difference in their fields.
