WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) has announced the 2026 Matriarchs of Indian Gaming, recognizing an extraordinary group of Native women whose leadership, vision, and dedication have played a vital role in strengthening tribal government gaming and advancing tribal sovereignty.
The Matriarchs of Indian Gaming recognition was established by the late Ernie Stevens, Jr., Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association, whose lifelong commitment to honoring Native women leaders remains a cornerstone of this celebration. Chairman Stevens firmly believed that the foundation of Indian gaming was built and sustained by the strength, resilience, and leadership of Native women across Indian Country.
“Chairman Stevens always reminded us that the women of Indian Country are the backbone of our communities and our industry,” said IGA Chairman David Z. Bean. “This recognition carries forward his vision by honoring women whose leadership has shaped tribal government gaming and created opportunity for generations to come. These Matriarchs represent strength, wisdom, and a commitment to sovereignty that continues to guide us forward.”
The 2026 Matriarchs of Indian Gaming will be honored during a special ceremony on April 2, 2026, at 10:00am at the Chairman’s Lounge, booth #1050 on the tradeshow floor, during the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention in San Diego, CA.
“As we celebrate the success of Indian gaming, it is especially important that we recognize the women who helped build this industry and continue to lead it today,” said Chairman Bean. “Their stories are not only a reflection of where we have been, but a roadmap for where we are going.”
This annual recognition serves as a powerful tribute to Native women who embody the spirit of leadership, cultural strength, and community empowerment, reinforcing the importance of matriarchal leadership across tribal nations.
A. Gay Kingman – Executive Director, Great Plains Tribal Chairman’s Association
A. Gay Kingman, a citizen of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, is a pioneering leader in tribal government gaming and a co-founder of the National Indian Gaming Association (now the Indian Gaming Association). With more than 60 years of service, she helped establish a unified national voice for tribes at the dawn of Indian gaming, building the organization’s Washington, D.C., presence and leading early advocacy efforts to protect tribal sovereignty. A former Executive Director of the National Congress of American Indians, Kingman has dedicated her life to advancing tribal governance, education, and policy, leaving a legacy across Indian Country.
Elizabeth Lohah Homer – Founder, Homer Law
Elizabeth Homer, a citizen of the Osage Nation, is one of the foremost legal authorities in federal Indian law and tribal gaming. A former Vice Chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission, she helped shape regulatory frameworks that strengthened tribal authority and participation in federal decision-making. Her distinguished career includes leadership roles within the U.S. Department of the Interior and Department of Justice, as well as international advocacy for Indigenous rights. Through her legal expertise and public service, Homer has played a critical role in advancing tribal sovereignty and protecting the integrity of Indian gaming.
Janie Dillard – Chief Executive Officer, Choctaw Global
Janie Dillard is a pioneering leader in tribal gaming whose career with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma spans more than four decades. Beginning in 1982, she rose through the ranks to lead the Nation’s gaming expansion, opening multiple properties, including the flagship Choctaw Casino & Resort in Durant, completed debt-free. She played a key role in negotiating and managing the tribe’s gaming compact, helping secure long-term economic strength for the Nation.
A former Senior Executive Officer for the Division of Commerce and now CEO of Choctaw Global, Dillard continues to drive economic growth and innovation. A longtime leader within the Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association, she is widely recognized for her lasting impact on tribal gaming.
Pam Shaw – United Women of Tribal Gaming; Osage Nation Congressional Speaker
Pam Shaw is a respected leader, executive, and advocate who has dedicated her career to advancing women in tribal gaming. With extensive experience across gaming operations, including executive leadership roles, she has consistently championed mentorship and professional growth. As co-founder and Chairwoman of United Women of Tribal Gaming, Shaw has created a platform to support, educate, and empower women across the industry. Her leadership continues to open doors and create pathways for future generations.
Erica Pinto – Chairwoman, Jamual Indian Village
Erica Pinto, Chairwoman of the Jamul Indian Village, has served her community for more than 27 years and became its first female Chairperson in 2015. A respected leader at the tribal, regional, and state levels, she has advanced economic development, healthcare initiatives, and community programs that strengthen her Nation. Through her leadership, she has reinforced tribal sovereignty while guiding the growth of tribal enterprises, including gaming, with a strong focus on future generations and community well-being.
Robin Villarreal – Chief Information Officer, Gila River Resorts & Casinos
Robin Villarreal is a trailblazing leader in technology and gaming operations, serving as the first Native American female Chief Information Officer for Gila River Resorts & Casinos. Rising from a front-line position to executive leadership, she has led major technology advancements and development projects that enhance the guest experience and operational excellence. A strong advocate for mentorship and leadership development, Villarreal is committed to creating opportunities for others and inspiring the next generation of Native professionals in gaming and technology.
