LaSala Retires From PDJF Leadership Roles

The Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund announced July 1 that president and fundraising director Nancy LaSala has retired and stepped down from its board. LaSala had served as president of the PDJF since its establishment in 2006. In January 2009, she additionally accepted the role as executive director, a position she held until April 2024. "On behalf of the entire PDJF Board, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Nancy LaSala for her dedication and service to the fund and our recipients," said chairman William J. Punk Jr. "Her vision, unwavering commitment, and tireless efforts have been instrumental in what we've become and the support we provide our fallen riders. "While she will be greatly missed, we celebrate her many achievements. She has made a lasting impact, and we look forward to continuing the growth she has enabled. Thank you, Nancy, for everything you've done for this organization and the professional jockey community that we serve." LaSala's passion for the PDJF and its mission were evident in everything she did. In 2024 she received the Dr. J. David "Doc" Richardson Community Award at the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards in recognition of her efforts. The National Turf Writers and Broadcasters previously honored LaSala with the Joe Palmer Award for meritorious service to racing. A native of Chicago and wife of retired jockey Jerry LaSala, her business background includes a nearly 40-year career as manager of contract administration and commercial activities for a global leader in power generation. LaSala stated, "As one of the founding board members of the PDJF, it's been an honor to help build this organization—from the ground up—into something that is so close to my heart. Looking back on our journey, I'm incredibly proud of the progress we've made and the impact we've had. It has been a privilege to work alongside such passionate and dedicated individuals, all united by a shared mission to support our jockeys in their time of greatest need. "I leave with pride in what we've accomplished together and with deep appreciation for the relationships built along the way. I have always believed that a cornerstone of our sport's business model should be the unwavering support of both our human and equine athletes."