The gaming industry is paying tribute following the passing of Ernie Stevens Jr, longtime Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association (IGA), who died on 26 September at the age of 66.
A citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, Stevens served as IGA Chairman for 24 years, having most recently been re-elected to a 13th term in April 2025. His tenure saw unprecedented growth in tribal government gaming revenues, which increased from $11bn in 2000 to more than $49bn in 2024, while the IGA expanded its role as a national advocate for tribal sovereignty and gaming policy.
Stevens' leadership extended far beyond the casino floor, with appointments to boards such as the Nike N7 Foundation, the Center for Native American Youth and the Boys & Girls Club of America. Additionally, he was inducted into the American Gaming Association's Hall of Fame in 2015 and the National Indian Athletic Association Hall of Fame in 2008, underlining his professional and personal impact across multiple communities.
Commenting on his passing, Bill Miller, President and CEO of the American Gaming Association, stated: "Today, the American gaming industry mourns the loss of one of its most transformative and respected leaders, Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr.
"As Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association for more than two decades, Ernie was a tireless and passionate advocate for Indian Country and a unifying force in advancing tribal sovereignty through gaming. His work not only helped elevate tribal government gaming into a powerful driver of economic opportunity but also shaped the broader trajectory of our industry with his unwavering commitment to collaboration, integrity and inclusion."
"On behalf of the American Gaming Association, our members and the entire gaming community, I extend our deepest condolences to the Stevens family, the Indian Gaming Association and all those whose lives Ernie touched. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we work to honor the values he championed so well."
The Seneca Nation also expressed deep sorrow at Stevens' passing, with President J. Conrad Seneca noting: "The Seneca Nation is shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Ernie Stevens Jr. As the longtime Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association, Ernie helped elevate the profile and impact of the industry for the benefit of Native Nations and our people.
"His leadership, vision and advocacy on behalf of the industry and Nations from across the United States, and his passionate defense of sovereignty and our collective pursuit of economic opportunity and gain for our people, helped shape the economy of Indian Country over the last quarter century.
"Ernie was a warrior, a leader and a friend. His impact on the gaming industry and the many Native Nations who have strengthened their economies through gaming enterprises is beyond measure. On behalf of the Seneca Nation and all Seneca people, I extend our condolences and sorrow to Ernie's family, as well as his Oneida Nation community. He will be missed."
Stevens' passing comes only months after his re-election as IGA Chairman in April, where he emphasised his continued commitment to defending tribal sovereignty and advancing the interests of Native Nations in gaming. At the time, he told delegates at the Indian Gaming Tradeshow and Convention in San Diego that he would "vigorously advance our proactive agenda" and remain "steadfast" in service to tribal governments.
His influence on gaming policy has been notable. As IGA Chairman, Stevens represented the interests of 184 Indian Nations and entities across the tribal gaming sector. Under his leadership, the association provided training initiatives for casino departments and tribal regulators, and positioned itself as a voice on emerging issues - including the rapid expansion of sports betting following the Supreme Court's Murphy decision in 2017. Stevens consistently underlined both the opportunities and the challenges of integrating new markets into tribal operations, advocating for careful participation that respected sovereignty and community values.
Stevens is survived by his wife, Cheryl, with whom he shared more than 45 years of marriage. His family described him simply as "our Dad and Papa," underscoring the personal side of a man who balanced national advocacy with a lifelong dedication to family and community. His passing represents a significant moment for the tribal and wider gaming industries, as leaders reflect on his legacy of economic development, political advocacy and social engagement.
Beyond gaming, Stevens served on multiple boards focused on Native American youth development and community leadership
