30 Years of Leadership
As the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States marks its 30th anniversary, the most powerful testament to its influence comes directly from the people who have worked alongside it: the lawmakers, regulators, industry leaders and policy experts who have relied on NCLGS as a trusted, balanced forum for navigating the complexities of gaming policy.
From its inaugural meeting in 1996 to its role today as the nation’s only nonpartisan body of state lawmakers dedicated exclusively to gaming, NCLGS has shaped the national conversation through integrity, transparency and a commitment to responsible governance. As the organization celebrates three decades of service, the reflections from those who know it best underscore just how essential its mission remains.
Helene Keeley
Director, Delaware Lottery
Few voices carry more weight than those who have experience with NCLGS leadership. Helene Keeley, director of the Delaware Lottery and a two‑time NCLGS president, offered one of the most compelling reflections on the organization’s milestone, saying, “It’s an absolute pleasure to congratulate NCLGS on its 30th anniversary, three decades of leadership, collaboration and service to the states.
“When I had the privilege of serving as president, not once but twice, and in other leadership roles within NCLGS, I saw firsthand how it brings together legislators and regulators from every corner of the country to share ideas and uphold integrity in gaming policy.”
The 30-year milestone reminds us that NCLGS has always been more than just an organization; it’s a forum built on respect, transparency and a shared commitment to responsible governance. Its longevity is a testament to the hard work of our member states, staff and partners who continue to guide the conversation and lead with vision.
Chris Shaban
Managing Director, iLottery, Aristocrat Interactive
Industry partners also have played a significant role in NCLGS’ evolution, and their reflections reinforce the organization’s national importance.
Chris Shaban, managing director of iLottery for Aristocrat Interactive, emphasizes NCLGS’ leadership in responsible, future‑focused policy: “For 30 years, NCLGS has played a vital role in elevating informed, balanced dialogue around gaming policy with a strong focus on responsible gameplay,” he says. “It has been a privilege to engage with the organization throughout its history, and we deeply value our longstanding relationship as we work together to support responsible, future-focused iLottery legislation.
“Congratulations to everyone who has worked with and works with the NCLGS today on this wonderful milestone.”
Sue Schneider
Co-founder, Defy the Odds
Among those who have witnessed this journey from the very beginning is Sue Schneider, a pioneering voice in gaming policy and co‑founder of Defy the Odds, established in 2024 to propel a new wave of innovation in gaming. Her perspective captures both the history and the continued relevance of NCLGS as it enters its next chapter.
“I’ve followed the growth of NCLGS from its genesis in 1996 … in response to the federal government’s National Gambling Impact Study Commission,” says Schneider. “The events have grown in attendance and importance. They’re now a ‘must-attend’ for many state legislators, state and tribal regulators and government relations folks from throughout the industry.
“I’ve been even more impressed with their outreach to other key organizations in the industry and will continue to watch it grow.”
A Future Shaped by Collaboration, Public Trust
As NCLGS celebrates its 30th anniversary throughout 2026, including at its Summer Meeting (July 8-11 at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego), the organization remains focused on the same principles that defined its founding.
NCLGS’ impact is not measured only in legislation, conferences or research. It is measured in the trust it has earned from lawmakers, regulators and industry leaders who continue to look to NCLGS as the nation’s most reliable public‑sector voice in gaming policy.
And as gaming continues to evolve, those voices, grounded in experience, collaboration and public responsibility, will shape the next chapter of NCLGS’ leadership.
NCLGS meetings are produced and organized by Spectrum Gaming Group, which serves as executive director and has helped guide the organization’s growth for more than a decade.
For more information, visit NCLGS.org. To register for the Summer Meeting, visit nclgs.regfox.com.
Juliann Barreto is COO of Spectrum Gaming Group and executive director of NCLGS.
