The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) joined tribal leaders, entrepreneurs, and partners from across Indian Country at the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development (NCAIED) RES 2026 Conference in Las Vegas to honor the life and legacy of Ernie Stevens Jr., a longtime NCAIED board member and unwavering advocate for tribal economic development.
Chairman Stevens’s presence was deeply felt throughout the conference, where his decades of leadership helped shape the foundation for Native enterprise development and strengthened the connection between tribal government gaming and economic opportunity across Indian Country.
“Chairman Stevens believed that when tribal economies grow, our people thrive,” said IGA Chairman David Z. Bean. “He carried a vision that connected business development, sovereignty, and community. That vision is alive today at RES, where leaders and entrepreneurs are building stronger futures for our nation.”
Stevens served more than 25 years on the NCAIED board, continuing a legacy rooted in family and service to Indian Country. His leadership reflected a deep commitment to doing what is right, uplifting communities, and ensuring that tribal economies remain strong for future generations.
During RES 2026, NCAIED board member Margo Gray offered a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on both the personal and professional impact Chairman Stevens had on those around him.
“As I looked around the room, I could still see Ernie,” said Gray. “He would be moving the placards around, making sure everyone was where they needed to be. That was who he was. We were not just colleagues; we were like brother and sister.”
Gray spoke to the sense of loss felt across the community while emphasizing the responsibility to carry forward his work.
“There was a shift. It felt different, it felt like something was missing,” Gray shared. “But in that moment, we knew we had to carry on. That is what he would expect of us.”
She also reflected on Stevens’ deep pride in his family and his roots in Indian Country, which shaped his leadership and lifelong commitment to service.
“He was proud of his family, proud of where he came from, and proud to serve our people,” Gray said. “He believed in doing what is right and what is just, and he carried that with him every day.”
Gray closed by reinforcing the importance of continuing Stevens’ legacy through action and unity.
“As we move forward, we do this work grounded in community, supporting our lands and our people,” she said. “That is how we honor him.”
Throughout RES 2026, participants are continuing Chairman Stevens’ vision by advancing Native-owned businesses, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that tribal economic development remains a cornerstone of sovereignty and self-determination.
“Ernie’s legacy is not behind us; it is in front of us,” Chairman Bean added. “We will continue to protect tribal sovereignty and strengthen tribal government gaming as a driver of opportunity, just as he dedicated his life to doing.”
The Indian Gaming Association stands alongside NCAIED and tribal leaders nationwide in honoring Chairman Stevens’ life, leadership, and lasting contributions to Indian Country.