IGA Elects New Leadership to Board of Directors

Oneida Chairman Tehassi Hill elected as Vice Chairman, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Principal Chief Michell Hicks elected as Treasurer

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:48am

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a polished, geometric wooden gavel and a stack of official-looking documents on a clean, monochromatic background, conceptually representing the authority and responsibility of the newly elected IGA Board leaders.The newly elected IGA Board leaders take on the weighty responsibility of guiding the tribal gaming industry through a pivotal moment.San Diego Today

The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) membership elected new officers to its Board of Directors during the 2026 Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention, with Tehassi Hill elected as Vice Chairman and Michell Hicks elected as Treasurer. Both will serve two-year terms representing tribal governments across Indian Country.

Why it matters

The election of new leadership to the IGA Board of Directors comes at a pivotal moment for tribal government gaming, as the industry faces challenges such as the expansion of illegal prediction markets and federal overreach. The new officers will be tasked with protecting tribal sovereignty and the future of Indian gaming.

The details

Chairman Hill, serving his third term as Chairman of the Oneida Nation, has a strong leadership record rooted in cultural preservation, environmental care, and safeguarding tribal sovereignty. Following the swearing-in ceremony, Vice Chairman Hill emphasized the importance of unity and continued progress across Indian Country. Principal Chief Hicks, a Certified Public Accountant and nationally recognized tribal leader, has guided the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians through significant economic growth and strategic development, overseeing a tribal population of more than 15,000 citizens. Treasurer Hicks echoed the commitment to addressing the challenges ahead, including the expansion of illegal markets that threaten the industry.

  • The Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention took place in 2026.

The players

Tehassi Hill

Chairman of the Oneida Nation, elected as Vice Chairman of the IGA Board of Directors.

Michell Hicks

Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, elected as Treasurer of the IGA Board of Directors.

David Z. Bean

Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association, who welcomed the newly elected officers and underscored the importance of their leadership at a pivotal moment for tribal government gaming.

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What they’re saying

“We must stay focused on the challenges ahead while continuing to share the story of our success. It is critical that we stand together and build unity as a strong force for our tribal nations. I will work diligently to serve all of you and ensure we continue moving forward in a sustainable and responsible way for our communities.”

— Tehassi Hill, Vice Chairman, IGA Board of Directors

“I am appreciative of the support, and I promise to work hard. There are many challenges in front of us, including the expansion of illegal markets that threaten our industry. Addressing these issues will take strategy, resources, and a unified effort, and I am committed to that work alongside all of you.”

— Michell Hicks, Treasurer, IGA Board of Directors

“Today's election reflects the strength of our tribal leadership and the unity of our membership. Vice Chairman Hill and Treasurer Hicks bring the experience, integrity, and commitment needed to help guide this organization forward. As we face serious challenges, including illegal prediction market activity and federal overreach, we are strengthening our leadership team to protect tribal sovereignty and the future of Indian gaming.”

— David Z. Bean, Chairman, Indian Gaming Association

What’s next

The newly elected officers will begin their two-year terms on the IGA Board of Directors, working to address the challenges facing the tribal government gaming industry and protect tribal sovereignty.

The takeaway

The election of Tehassi Hill and Michell Hicks to the IGA Board of Directors underscores the importance of unified tribal leadership in navigating the complex issues facing the Indian gaming industry. Their experience and commitment to serving tribal communities will be crucial as the IGA works to defend sovereignty, strengthen tribal economies, and ensure the long-term sustainability of tribal government gaming.