Indian Gaming Association chairman Ernie Stevens Jr. dies suddenly

The Indian Gaming Association has announced the sudden death of its longtime chairman, Ernest L. Stevens Jr. Stevens, who died on Sept. 26, led the organization for more than two decades, working to advance tribal government gaming and strengthen tribal sovereignty, according to an IGA statement.

Jason Giles, executive director of IGA, said in the statement that the IGA Board and staff “are stunned and saddened” by Stevens’s passing. “Out of respect for his wife Cheryl, his lovely family and the Oneida Nation,” the statement continued, “we will issue a full tribute at the appropriate time. Please send your prayers to the Stevens family.”

Under Stevens’s leadership, Indian gaming revenues grew from $11 billion in 2000 to $43.9 billion in 2024, which IGA described as a reflection of his strategic vision and advocacy alongside tribal leaders nationwide.