Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr dies aged 66
Stevens served as chairman of the IGA for 24 years and was re-elected to a 13th term earlier this year.
Key points:
– Stevens oversaw tribal gaming’s growth to $49.1bn in 2024 revenues
– He was inducted into the AGA Gaming Hall of Fame in 2015
– Stevens was also recognised for his youth development and community leadership
Ernest L “Ernie” Stevens Jr, Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association (IGA) and one of the most influential figures in US tribal gaming, has died suddenly at the age of 66
Stevens, a citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, passed away on 26 September. His family confirmed the news in a statement, asking for privacy as they mourned “the passing of our Dad and Papa.”
He had been honoured in Milwaukee earlier this month for leading the IGA during a period of record performance for tribal gaming, with revenues reaching $43.9bn in fiscal 2024.
In April, Stevens was re-elected by acclamation to his 13th term as chairman, marking 24 years in the role.
Good to know: The Indian Gaming Association, founded in 1985, represents 184 Indian Nations and entities across the tribal gaming sector
Under his leadership, tribal government gaming revenues rose from $11bn in 2000 to more than $49bn in 2024. His tenure also saw the IGA expand its role as an advocate for tribal sovereignty and a central voice in national gaming policy.
Stevens’ contributions extended beyond gaming. He served on boards including the Nike N7 Foundation, the Center for Native American Youth and the Boys & Girls Club of America.
United National Indian Tribal Youth said: “I understood that the strength of our Nations rests in the hands of our young people.”
Bill Miller, President and CEO of the American Gaming Association, said: “Today, the American gaming industry mourns the loss of one of its most transformative and respected leaders, Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr. 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.”
A former athlete, Stevens was a four-time consecutive state heavyweight boxing champion in the 1970s and co-founded the Soaring Eagle Boxing Club at 16.
His career later shifted to public service, including six years as an elected Oneida Nation councilman and as first VP of the National Congress of American Indians.
He was inducted into multiple halls of fame, including the AGA Gaming Hall of Fame in 2015 and the National Indian Athletic Association Hall of Fame in 2008.
Stevens is survived by his wife, Cheryl, after more than 45 years of marriage. He leaves behind a legacy of advancing tribal sovereignty, securing economic opportunities for communities and mentoring the next generation of Native leaders.
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