The National Indian Gaming Commission re-appointed vice chair Jeannie H. Hovland, and appointed associate general counsel Sharon M. Avery to the position of Associate commissioners.
Hovland, as well Avery, have both been given three-year contracts with the NIGC. Hovland will serve his second term in the position of Associate Commissioner. Avery will have her first. The Secretary of Interior, Deb haaland proposed both appointments.
Hovland, an enrolled member the Flandreau Sioux tribe of South Dakota has worked with the NIGC as of 2021. She was previously the Commissioner of Administration for Native Americans and the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Native American Affair for the Administration for Children and Families of the US Department of Health and Human Services.
Her work with South Dakota Senator Johnthune spanned nearly 13 years, and included assisting in the creation of legislation like the Tribal Law and Order Act and Code Talkers Recognition Act of 2008
Hovland commented on her reappointment: “I feel truly honored to have been appointed to the Commission for another term.” As we work together to adapt to the changing landscape of tribal gaming, I am looking forward to a collaborative relationship between the Agency’s staff and the tribes.
Avery has worked for the NIGC as an associate general counsel in its Office of General Counsel since over four years.
She served as the General Counsel of Tribal Operations for Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe in Michigan for over 10 years before joining the NIGC.
Avery added, “I accept with great pleasure this appointment as Associate Commissioner at the NIGC.”
I am thrilled to continue working with the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act and the tribes to maintain the integrity of Indian Gaming.
