John B. “Jeb” Hannum III has been named executive secretary of the Pennsylvania Horse Breeders Association by the organization’s president Brian Sanfratello. Hannum succeeds Mark McDermott, who retired earlier this month after thirty-five years in the position.
“The Association conducted an extensive search for an individual with the talents to lead what we think is the top state breeders’ incentive program in the country,” Sanfratello said in a release. “The opportunity exists to develop Pennsylvania into a major breeding center over the next few years, and we believe Jeb has the skill set necessary to help accomplish this.”
Hannum has spent the past three years as a sitting member of the Pennsylvania State Horse Racing Commission. He holds a masters degree in government administration from the University of Pennsylvania, and has extensive experience in public relations and governmental and legislative affairs nationally, and in Europe.
“I am well aware of the traditions and many successes of Pennsylvania’s breeders,” Hannum said. “The Pennsylvania Breeding Fund program has been very successful over the years, and it is my ambition to continue to sustain that momentum by representing, advocating, and promoting the Association’s membership.”
A native of Chester County and now living in Unionville, Hannum is married with three young children. He has family roots in breeding, training, and owning racehorses. He has worked for several well-known trainers in the United States and England, and has ridden as an amateur steeplechase jockey.
Pennsylvania Horse Breeders Association is statutorily responsible for all aspects of the administration and development of the Pennsylvania Breeding Fund program, and for the maintenance of the official registry of Pennsylvania-bred racehorses and stallions.