Departure of NIGC Vice Chair Jeannie Hovland

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
Shawn Pensoneau
(202) 538-5156
Media@nigc.gov

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 6, 2026 – The National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) as we speak introduced the departure of Vice Chair Jean C. Hovland, efficient instantly.

Hovland, a member of the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe, has served as Vice Chair since 2021 and helped lead the company’s oversight of greater than 500 Indian gaming operations, working alongside fellow commissioners to uphold the integrity of a virtually $44B Indian gaming trade by regulatory oversight efforts beneath the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.

“This was not an easy decision, but after much prayer and consideration, I have determined that it is time to return home to South Dakota,” stated Hovland. “It’s been an honor to serve for over two decades in federal service, with eight of those years in Washington, D.C.  I cannot think of a better agency to conclude my federal career with than the National Indian Gaming Commission.”

Over 5 years with NIGC, Hovland has been an advocate for shielding tribal sovereignty, selling important pathways to develop the subsequent era of gaming leaders, and, importantly, elevating consciousness and securing federal assets to fight human trafficking and different threats to tribal communities.

“I am inspired daily by the knowledge, expertise, and passion of the NIGC Team in upholding the agency’s mission and supporting the integrity of Tribal Gaming. It has been a privilege to travel to Tribal Nations, meet with Tribal leaders and gaming regulators, and witness firsthand the resilience and positive impacts of tribal gaming,” Hovland stated.

“Vice Chair Hovland’s steadfast commitment has had a lasting and meaningful impact on the Agency and Indian Country,” stated Chief of Staff Dustin Thomas. “Her commitment to strengthening tribal sovereignty, advancing regulatory excellence, and supporting the well-being of tribal communities reflects the very best of public service. We are deeply grateful for her contributions and wish her continued success as she returns home to South Dakota.”

Prior to her service with the Commission, Hovland held a number of senior federal management roles, together with Commissioner of the Administration for Native Americans, the place she oversaw social and financial improvement applications for Native communities. She additionally served as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Native American Affairs on the Administration for Children and Families throughout the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Hovland’s deep dedication to Indian Country is rooted in her years of service in South Dakota, the place she was U.S. Senator John Thune’s tribal affairs advisor for almost 13 years.

The Agency will present extra particulars on the management succession when obtainable. Sharon Avery stays as Associate Commissioner.

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The National Indian Gaming Commission’s mission is to assist tribal self-sufficiency and the integrity of Indian gaming by efficient regulation. Together with tribes and states, the NIGC regulates greater than 500 gaming institutions operated by almost 250 tribes throughout 29 states. To study extra, go to www.nigc.govand observe us on Facebook, X (Twitter), and LinkedIn.

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