Representatives from 184 tribal homelands and gaming industry executives behind casinos across Indian nations will convene in San Diego this week for the National Indian Gaming Association’s (NIGA) 2017 Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention.
Now in its 32nd year, Indian Gaming is the largest Indian gaming trade show, gathering tribal leaders and gaming executives from around the U.S. In addition to the educational and networking experience, the NIGA event serves as “an occasion for cultural celebration of success, strength and self-reliance,” according to organizers.
Educational programs will include casino operations, human resources and management, leadership and development, iGaming and fantasy sports, information technology, security and surveillance, legislative/policy, marketing, National Indian Gaming Commission regulation and compliance, Tribal Gaming Protection Network (TGPN), women in tribal gaming, enterprise development, cannabis policy and finance.
In conjunction with this year’s show, the NIGA Seminar Series continues with Commissioner Certification Trainings.
Two golf tournaments coincide with the NIGA’s major event. The Chairman’s Golf Tournament will tee off at 10.a.m. today at the Sycuan Golf Resort’s Willow Glen Course. The Vice-Chairman’s Golf Tournament commences the same day and time at Sycuan’s Oak Glen Golf Resort.
The Chairman’s Welcome Reception takes place at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego this evening at 6 p.m. All registered attendees and guests are encouraged to attend the complimentary event, which includes an evening of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dancing, and celebration, plus special presentations and entertainment.
Also featured will be the Wendell Chino Awards Banquet, April 12, 6:30 p.m. at San Diego Convention Center. The banquet honors the legacy of longtime president Wendell Chino of the Mescalero Apache Nation, who spent his life protecting tribal sovereignty and advancing Indian self-governance. At the banquet, NIGA will honor an individual who upholds his legacy with the Wendell Chino Humanitarian Award.
