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We asked tribal leaders to discuss their current top priorities, how innovation is guiding decisions across their gaming and hospitality portfolios, and how they approach leadership development to ensure long-term stability and growth. Here is what Chairman Mark Fox had to say…
Mark Fox, Chairman
Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation
4 Bears Casino & Lodge – New Town, ND
4bearscasino.com / mhanation.com
PRIORITIES: The Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation (MHA Nation), also known as the Three Affiliated Tribes, continues to thrive under a vision of self-determination, sovereignty, and sustainable prosperity for our people. Our tribe’s top priorities center on long-term economic self-sufficiency, infrastructure enhancement, community wellness, and cultural preservation. We focus on diversifying revenue streams beyond our strong energy sector to create stable, high-quality employment opportunities, improve health and education services, and invest in youth and veteran programs. A key emphasis is on workforce development, ensuring our members have access to training and meaningful jobs that honor our traditions while building intergenerational wealth. While our gaming operations at 4 Bears Casino & Lodge do not generate the largest share of tribal revenue, they remain a valuable contributor by providing essential jobs and supporting regional economic activity. The casino protects and creates employment, with more than 200 full-time positions sustained through ongoing investments and expansions. Located on the shores of Lake Sakakawea, 4 Bears offers stable work for tribal and non-tribal members alike. Recent enhancements include the addition of a new sportsbook (2024); the River Willow gaming vessel with slots, table games, and bars (2026); and a new seven-story hotel tower (2026). The new hotel includes expanded guest rooms, a sports bar, fine dining, ballroom, and more gaming space to enhance our competitive offerings. These efforts extend visitor stays, boost tourism, and provide consistent economic benefits, that provide revenue for important tribal programs such as healthcare, education, addiction recovery, and infrastructure – strengthening our sovereignty and quality of life for members to meet economic challenges in the future.
INNOVATION: Innovation is a guiding force in our gaming and hospitality portfolio, driving decisions that keep us competitive and forward-looking. We embrace technological and experiential advancements to elevate guest experiences while respecting our cultural heritage. Key innovations such as an updated RV park, public beach, boat slips, an exciting water park, and our MHA Interpretive Center across the bay, are enhancing and supporting our vision of making the 4 Bears recreation area a premier destination resort. The hotel tower expansion incorporates cultural signatures with upscale amenities to appeal to a broader audience. Looking ahead, our strategic land acquisitions and development plans reflect innovative approaches to economic growth. We prioritize sustainable practices, data-driven operational enhancements, and partnerships that elevate our properties to cutting-edge hospitality standards. These efforts help protect jobs and sustain operations amid regional competition, positioning 4 Bears as an amazing destination that blends excitement with the natural beauty of our homeland.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT: Leadership development is fundamental to ensuring the long-term stability and growth of the MHA Nation. We approach this through mentorship, education, and stimulation of business opportunities. We invest in our youth via scholarships, internships, and community programs that build skills in governance, business, and cultural stewardship. Our Tribal Business Council emphasizes transparency, professional development, and cross-training across departments to prepare emerging leaders. Drawing on my own path – from U.S. Marine Corps service to roles as Tribal Gaming Director, Tax Director, and now Chairman – we encourage members to gain diverse experience, including in key areas such as healthcare, energy, and gaming. National involvement, through organizations such as the Indian Gaming Association and the National Congress of American Indians, exposes our leaders to broader perspectives while reinforcing tribal sovereignty. By fostering knowledge and a commitment to excellence, we safeguard continuity in governance and sustain the momentum of our progress for generations to come.