**Ernie Stevens, Jr., Longtime Indian Gaming Association Chairman, Passes at 66**
*By Native News Online Staff | September 29, 2025*
Ernie Stevens, Jr., a tribal citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin and the longtime chairman of the Indian Gaming Association, passed away on Friday at the age of 66.
Jason Giles, executive director of the Indian Gaming Association, released a statement on Friday evening expressing the organization’s grief:
> “Our Indian Gaming Association board and staff are stunned and saddened by Chairman Stevens’ passing. Out of respect for his wife Cheryl, his lovely family, and the Oneida Nation, we will issue a full tribute at the appropriate time. Please send your prayers to the Stevens family.”
### Tributes for Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr.
Ernie Stevens, Jr. was reelected to his 13th term as chairman at the organization’s annual convention in San Diego in April 2025. His sudden passing on September 26, 2025, has prompted an outpouring of tributes honoring his impactful leadership and dedication to tribal gaming and Native communities.
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For more information and ongoing coverage, visit Native News Online.
https://nativenewsonline.net/currents/monday-morning-september-28-2025-articles-you-may-have-missed-this-past-weekend