LaDuke Honored by VIAAA with Distinguished Service Award

Tracey Pinkin, athletic trainer and anatomy and physiology teacher at Cape Henry Collegiate, was the other recipient.

The Distinguished Service Award recognizes meritorious contributions to high school athletics by those who work outside the field of athletic administration. The award's recipient or recipients are chosen at an annual meeting of past VIAAA presidents after considering nominations from across the organization.

LaDuke worked at Chatham Hall for 34 years, and during her 20-year term as Chatham Hall's athletic director (1996-2015) was instrumental in the founding of the Blue Ridge Conference and the Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association (VISAA), serving as an officer in both organizations. Following her tenure as athletic director, LaDuke oversaw young alumnae relations as well as returned to coach the 2021 Field Hockey team for an encore season. 

"La has meant so much to the Chatham Hall community and the development of VISAA in her time in athletics," said Chatham Hall Director of Athletics Jeremy Eubank. "It's great that the VIAAA is honoring her this year with the Distinguished Service Award. This award truly speaks volumes to the work she did in her time at Chatham Hall and VISAA."

Both selectees were honored at the VIAAA State Conference banquet on March 22 at the Omni Hotel in Charlottesville, Va. Eubank accepted the award on behalf of Chatham Hall.