Recognizing the Trailblazers
Anyone who has spent any time in our industry will tell you that the story of gaming is entirely about its people—the dealers laying down the cards, the innovators creating the next slot technology, the mentors fostering the future leaders, and everyone in between.
The people are the reason our industry continues to evolve and grow. Since 1989, the Gaming Hall of Fame has celebrated those people—the legends, pioneers and visionaries whose contributions have left a permanent mark on gaming. The names on this list are as diverse as our industry itself: Harry Reid and Celine Dion, Wolfgang Puck and William Boyd, the Blue Man Group and Virginia McDowell.
Together, they illustrate just how many different roles, skills and passions it takes for this industry to thrive.
Each year, the AGA adds to this legacy by recognizing a new class of inductees. The Hall of Fame is our way of honoring individuals who have dedicated their careers to gaming—not only to celebrate what they’ve accomplished, but to inspire those who will follow.
The selection is made by an independent panel of esteemed gaming executives, and this year’s inductees represent three very different but equally impressive trailblazers who have shaped gaming’s story.
Together, these three inductees highlight the many ways leaders can make an impact—through finance, through people, and through the player experience itself.
To David, Ann, and Charlie: Thank you for your leadership, your vision and the mark you’ve left on our industry. You’ve not only helped build the gaming industry we know today but also laid the foundation for its future.
As we celebrate this year’s honorees, we also celebrate what’s still ahead—the bright future of gaming and the leaders who will follow in their footsteps.
The 2025 Gaming Hall of Fame Inductees:
David Berman
Co-Head of Macquarie Capital, Americas and Global Head of Consumer, Gaming & Leisure
David Berman has spent more than 30 years helping to fuel the growth of our industry. He’s guided billions of dollars in deals, has built and led gaming-focused advisory teams, and has been a steady hand behind some of the industry’s biggest casino expansions. His leadership and unmatched expertise have helped companies take bold ideas and turn them into reality, driving gaming forward on a global scale.
Ann Simmons Nicholson
Founder and CEO, Simmons Group
Ann Simmons has spent her career helping gaming organizations and their employees navigate change. From opening new properties to integrating teams after mergers, she’s been a trusted partner in moments that have defined a company’s culture and future. Her training and leadership development programs have reached tens of thousands of gaming employees around the world, preparing the next generation to succeed. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Simmons’ commitment to Global Gaming Women has opened doors for countless women to lead in this industry—proof that people are what allow this industry to thrive.
Charlie Lombardo
Former Senior Vice President of Gaming Operations at Seminole Hard Rock Gaming and former Senior Vice President of Slot Operations for Caesars Palace, Bally’s and Paris Las Vegas
Charlie Lombardo’s influence spans more than 50 years and nearly every corner of the casino floor. From his time at Caesars and Bally’s to his groundbreaking innovations at Seminole Gaming, Lombardo has helped shape how players experience gaming. His development of a Class II gaming system set a new standard for tribal gaming, while his slot innovations became industry benchmarks. Even in retirement, his counsel continues to shape new openings and expansions across Seminole and Hard Rock properties.
