03/01/2026
Wednesday was a full day of insight, leadership, celebration, and community.
The morning began with a Continental Breakfast before attendees headed into a robust lineup of sessions across all four tracks. Discussions covered the evolving landscape of sports wagering in California, the risks & realities of artificial intelligence, fraud prevention, energy strategy, Proposition 50 implications, technology transitions, regulatory gray areas, tax legislation, hospitality expansion, land acquisition strategies, and long-term growth planning for tribal enterprises.
At midday, attendees gathered for the Awards Luncheon, sponsored by AT&T, ROI Promotions& Pechanga Band of Indians.
The luncheon honored two distinguished leaders whose dedication has made a lasting impact on tribal gaming and governance:
Twelfth Annual Anna Sandoval Leadership Award
Tribal Leader Recipient:
The Honorable Dennis Hendricks, Treasurer Emeritus of CNIGA & Councilmember at the Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians.
Twelfth Annual Pauline Murillo Industry Leader Award
Industry Leader Recipient:
Susan Jensen, Former Executive Director of CNIGA.
Susan, who retired last year, was recognized for her years of steadfast leadership, advocacy & commitment to strengthening CNIGA & tribal gaming across California. Her contributions continue to shape the organization and the industry as a whole.
At 5:00 PM, Summit C came alive for the WIGC Happy Hour, sponsored by FSA Advisory Group. The relaxed setting allowed attendees to unwind, build new relationships, and strengthen existing partnerships before the evening’s main event.
Summit C then transformed for the WIGC Poker Tournament with Karaoke.
The poker tables were filled with strategy, suspense, and competition as participants vied for tournament bragging rights. With limited space and pre-registration required, the competition was focused and spirited from the first deal to the final hand.
Once the cards were set aside, the karaoke mic took center stage.
Colleagues became performers, and Summit C turned into a lively stage of sing-alongs, applause, and unforgettable moments.
