National Indian Gaming Commission announces departure of vice chair
Jean C. Hovland had served in the position since 2021.
US.- The National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) has announced the departure of vice chair Jean C. Hovland with immediate effect. Hovland, a member of the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe, had served in the position since 2021. The commission said it would provide details on the leadership succession when available.
Before her service with the commission, Hovland held several senior federal leadership roles, including commissioner of the administration for Native Americans. She also served as deputy assistant secretary for Native American Affairs at the Administration for Children and Families within the US Department of Health and Human Services.
Chief of Staff Dustin Thomas said: “Vice Chair Hovland’s steadfast commitment has had a lasting and meaningful impact on the agency and Indian Country. 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.”
Hovland commented: “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. It’s been an honour 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.
“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.”
