Indian Gaming Leader Ernie Stevens, Jr. Celebrated for Decades of Service
Ernie Stevens, Jr., Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association (IGA), was recently honored by the Oneida Gaming Commission for his 24 years of dedicated leadership in tribal gaming. The recognition occurred during the Wisconsin Gaming Regulatory Association (WGRA) conference in Milwaukee, a significant event that also saw the release of record-breaking gross gaming revenues for tribal operations nationwide.
Key Takeaways
- Ernie Stevens, Jr. honored for 24 years of leadership in tribal gaming.
- Tribal gaming generated a record $43.9 billion in gross revenue for fiscal year 2024.
- Stevens emphasized the importance of tribal sovereignty and educating policymakers.
- IGA also presented peer-selected awards to regulators and commissioners.
A Legacy of Leadership
At the WGRA conference, held at Potawatomi Casino Hotel, Chairman Stevens was lauded by tribal officials and industry peers for his unwavering commitment to advancing tribal sovereignty, fostering regulatory partnerships, and driving economic development through tribal gaming. Mark Powless, Chairman of the Oneida Gaming Commission, praised Stevens for his strength, vision, and resilience, stating, "Ernie Stevens Jr. has dedicated his life to Indian Country with unwavering commitment and passion." Powless further highlighted Stevens’s ability to translate his disciplined approach from his boxing career into effective statesmanship in advocating for tribal interests in Washington D.C.
Record-Breaking Revenue and Future Advocacy
The conference coincided with the National Indian Gaming Commission’s (NIGC) announcement of a record $43.9 billion in gross gaming revenues for fiscal year 2024, marking a significant increase and underscoring the industry’s economic vitality for tribal communities. These revenues are crucial for funding essential services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure on reservations. Chairman Stevens expressed his gratitude for the honor and reiterated his commitment to advocating for tribal sovereignty, particularly in light of current policy reviews. He stressed the need for continued engagement with policymakers to educate them on the transformative power of Indian gaming and its importance to Native communities.
Recognizing Excellence in Regulation
During the event, Chairman Stevens also presented the Indian Gaming Association Chairman’s Leadership Awards. These peer-selected accolades recognized individuals for their integrity and service in upholding the standards of tribal gaming. Honorees included Mary Kay Merrill (former Chairwoman of the St. Croix Gaming Commission), Ivory Kelly (founder and CEO of the Tribal Council for Responsible Gaming), and Kyle Thundercloud (surveillance operator with the Forest County Potawatomi Gaming Commission). Stevens emphasized the vital role these regulators and commissioners play as guardians of the industry, ensuring fair play and protecting tribal sovereignty for future generations.
Sources
- Oneida Gaming Commission Honors IGA Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr., www.indiangaming.com.
