Attorney, Animal Rights Defender, NPO Executive
Diana has worked with the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation since 1997 when she became a volunteer for the organization founded by Monique Koehler. Through the years she has served as TRF Legal Counsel, a member of the Board of Directors, and ultimately as Executive Director. Today, the TRF is the largest equine rescue organization in the world, dedicated to saving thoroughbred racehorses from abuse, neglect and possible slaughter by placing them in therapeutic programs for incarcerated men and women, as well in programs providing equine assisted therapy.
She firmly believes that connecting thoroughbreds with men, women and youngsters in need has changed the world, spawning successful treatment programs around the globe and giving second chances to tens of thousands of people and horses who might otherwise have been neglected, abandoned or worse.
“My time as a lawyer, as a public defender and later with Monique at the TRF, cemented my daily dedication to doing good as well as seeing the positive side of every person no matter where they were in life.”
A native of Middletown, New Jersey, Diana received a bachelor’s degree from Drew University and her JD from Vermont Law School. She practiced civil and criminal litigation for 10 years and was President of the Vermont Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys. She also organized the first free legal clinic in Vermont. Diana lives in upstate New York with her husband Bob Duncan, daughter Harper… and seven retired racehorses.
Diana knew James for his entire life. By joining the Board of Play for James Foundation, she like her fellow directors is committed to furthering James’ efforts to help those less fortunate then he find joy, self esteem and success.