Previous Events

13th Annual Tribal Casino Executive Exchange

February 15-17, 2026

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club - Dana Point, CA

Event Details

The 13th Annual Tribal Casino Executive Exchange will be held February 15-17, 2026, at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, Dana Point, CA.

This event brings together Casino Executives from Tribal-owned casinos for moderator-led roundtable discussions, small group breakout sessions, peer-to-peer dialogues, and plenty of networking opportunities. This C-Level event is designed to help attendees in solving the biggest challenges facing Tribal-owned casinos while presenting partners with the solutions they need.

To speak with a representative about attending, speaking, sponsoring or exhibiting, please call us at 201-857-5333 or email dan@nativenationevents.org.

Registration Information

The 13th Annual Tribal Casino Executive Exchange is one of the most exclusive gatherings in Indian Country. This event is invite-only for top General Managers, Assistant General Managers, and Casino Executives.

If you have questions regarding your eligibility to attend, please contact Dan O’Connor (dan@nativenationevents.org) at 201-857-5333.

HOTEL INFORMATION

WALDORF ASTORIA MONARCH BEACH RESORT & CLUB

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club

1 Monarch Beach Resort

Dana Point, CA 92629

Room Rate: $395

Cut-Off Date: Thursday, January 15th, 2026

To reserve your room, please call 1-800-722-1543. To receive the discounted room rate, mention Native Nation Events or the Tribal Casino Executive Exchange.

Book Your Room Here

GOLF OUTING INFORMATION

Monarch Beach Golf Links - Dana Point, CA

One of the highlights of Native Nation Events’ Casino Executive Exchange is the golf outing following sessions on day two. Forum partners and attendees will enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Monarch Beach Golf Links, combining friendly competition with scenic coastal views. Players will compete for prizes including best overall score, longest drive, and closest to the pin.

Located along the Southern California coastline in Dana Point, Monarch Beach Golf Links offers a premier oceanfront golf experience with sweeping Pacific views and immaculately maintained fairways. The outing will feature a shotgun start and is open to golfers of all skill levels—from seasoned players to first-time participants—ensuring an enjoyable and inclusive experience for everyone.

13th Annual Tribal Casino Executive Exchange

February 15-17, 2026

Sunday, February 15

7:30-9:00 PM

Opening Reception

Monday, February 16th

8:00 - 9:00 AM

Registration and Networking Breakfast

9:00 - 9:15 AM

Opening Remarks

Justin O'Connor

President | Native Nation Events

Dan O'Connor

Director of Sales | Native Nation Events

9:15 -10:00 AM

The Why Behind the Wager

Mark Astone

Chief Executive Officer | Catalyst

Josh Williams

Vice President of Strategy and Technology | Catalyst

As tribal gaming evolves, understanding why players choose one casino over another is becoming as important as tracking visits and spend. In this session, Catalyst Marketing shares early insights from a national survey of Indian casino gamers, uncovering shifting motivations, expectations, and decision drivers heading into 2026. Attendees will leave with practical takeaways to inform smarter strategy, more relevant marketing, and stronger guest relationships.

10:00 - 10:15 AM

Morning Networking Break

10:15 AM- 12:15 PM

Interconnective Speed Sessions

At this fast paced, round-robin style event, Forum Partners will have the opportunity to sit and speak with all participating Casino Executives for about 4–5-minute intervals. This session is designed as a quick introduction and putting a face to the name that will allow you the opportunity to set up a one-on-one meeting to dive deeper into what products and services your company offers.

12:15 - 1:15 PM

Networking Lunch

1:15 - 2:15 PM

AI in Gaming – Smarter Casino Operations

Mridula Rahmsdorf - Moderator

Chief Revenue Officer | IKASI

Brooke Fiumara

Chief Executive Officer | OPTX

Saverio Scheri

Chief Operations Officer | Agua Caliente Resort Casino & Spa

Joe Young

Director of Gaming Operations | Table Mountain Casino Resort

Craig Pleva

Chief Operating Officer | Morongo Casino Resort & Spa

Artificial Intelligence is transforming how casinos operate, from the back office to the gaming floor. In an era defined by efficiency, personalization, and real-time data, AI gives casino executives the ability to make smarter, faster and more profitable decisions.

Key Takeaways:

  • How AI-driven technology analytics help optimize staffing, dollar allocation, and customer experience
  • Automation and smart data-driven decision-making within each department will lead to a greater return on investment.

 

2:15 - 2:45 PM

Afternoon Networking Break

2:45 - 3:45 PM

How Can AI Technology Increase the Profitability of Your Continuity Gifting Program

Scott Nicholson - Moderator

Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships | Imagine This

Christian Marcello

President | FirstPoint Connect

Michael Glauser

Founder & Managing Partner | A.D.E.N.

Brian Decorah

Senior Vice President and General Manager | Gun Lake Casino

Pearl Aguinaldo

Vice President of Marketing | Agua Caliente Casinos

Gifting programs have been a cornerstone for player retention. Given today’s competition for customer gaming dollars, how are Gaming Enterprises utilizing the data to adapt and produce programs with precision, personalization, and in return profitability.

Key Takeaways:

  • Using predictive analytics to personalize gifting
  • Automating player segmentation for smarter reward tiers
  • Tracking redemption data
  • Integrating AI with existing CRM and loyalty systems

3:45 - 5:00 PM

Don’t let emerging gaming markets force your decisions, stay ahead of the curve

Tino Magnatta - Moderator

Host | Casino Update

Ray Pineault

Casino Executive

Craig Pleva

Chief Operating Officer | Moronga Casino Resort & Spa

Camille Mercier

Chief Executive Officer | Spirit Mountain Casino

Mary Smith

President and Chief Executive Officer | Four Winds Casino

Kevin Nephew

President & CEO | Seneca Gaming Corporation

As gaming expands, the real leadership challenge isn’t reacting after new models take hold, but thinking ahead before they become threats. Too often, the industry waits for regulatory or competitive clarity, instead of planning early, assessing risk, and deciding where to participate before the market forces that decision.

5:00 PM

Sessions Conclude

6:00 - 9:00 PM

Monday Night Reception

Monday night is where business meets bragging rights! Join us for a lively Dinner Reception featuring great food, great company, and a friendly (but competitive) cornhole tournament. Mix, mingle, and toss a few bags as you network with fellow attendees as well as leading industry companies. Prizes, laughter and unforgettable moments are guaranteed!

9:00 PM

Day One Concludes

Tuesday, February 17

8:00 - 9:00

Networking Breakfast

9:00 - 10:00 AM

Strategies for a Sustainable Future with Costs on the Rise

Chase Lane

Chief Executive Officer | LT.agency

Michael Michaud

Chief Marketing Officer | Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise

Oscar Garcia

General Manager | Casino Pauma

Paul Feltman

Chief Operating Officer | Quechan Casino Resort

Jason Wolfe

Chief Executive Officer | PerfectGift

Inflation, labor shortages, and supply chain continues to drive up costs across every area of casino operations. From gaming floors to F&B, hotel services, rewards, incentives, and marketing. What are some avenues being taken to navigate through these hurdles while saving every dollar possible?

Key Takeaways:

·The biggest cost drivers impacting casinos today

·Workforce retention and wage pressures

·Vendor negotiations

·Balancing cost containment with guest experience

10:00 - 11:00 AM

iGaming’s Influence on Brick-and-Mortar Casinos

Jim Eller - Moderator

Business Development | CIS Technology

Scott Sirois

General Manager | Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hote

Kimberlee Dunlop

Chief Operating Officer | Seneca Gaming Corporation

Kenneth Rohman

Executive Vice President, Customer Experience | Wind Creek Hospitality

Do we see iGaming as a threat, or a powerful new ally? As iGaming continues to grow across the U.S., how is it shaping the future of your casino when there is a rise of mobile sport betting, digital wagering, and online casino platforms.

Key Takeaways:

· How iGaming is changing player behavior and spending dollars

· Can it be an engine for innovation, cross-channel loyalty, and sustainable growth?

· Using digital platforms to re-engage dormant players

11:00 - 11:15 AM

Closing Remarks/Adjourn from Sessions

12:30 - 5:00 PM

Golf Outing with Shotgun Start

Join us at the Monarch Golf Club for a relaxing afternoon and light competition with prizes for best score, longest drive, and closest to the pin! Our shotgun start is open to experts and beginners alike and will be thoroughly enjoyed by all. Driving range will be available from 11:00 – 12:00.

Mark Astone

Chief Executive Officer | Catalyst Marketing
Read More

Pearl Aguinaldo

Vice President of Marketing | Agua Caliente Casinos
Read More

Brian Decorah

Senior Vice President and General Manager | Gun Lake Casino Resort
Read More

Kimberlee Dunlop

Chief Operating Officer | Seneca Gaming Officer
Read More

Jim Eller

Business Development | CIS Technology Inc.
Read More

Paul Feltman

Chief Operating Officer | Quechan Casino Resort
Read More

Brooke Fiumara

Cofounder and Co-Chief Executive Officer | OPTX
Read More

Oscar Garcia

General Manager | Casino Pauma
Read More

Michael Glauser

Founder & Managing Partner | ADEN
Read More

Chase Lane

Chief Executive Officer | LT.agency
Read More

Tino Magnatta

Founder | Casino Update Media
Read More

Christian Marcello

President | FirstPoint Connect
Read More

Camille Mercier

Chief Executive Officer | Spirit Mountain Casino
Read More

Michael Michaud

Chief Marketing Officer | Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise
Read More

Kevin Nephew

President & CEO | Seneca Gaming Corporation
Read More

Scott Nicholson

Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships | Imagine This
Read More

Ray Pineault

Casino Executive
Read More

Craig Pleva

Chief Operating Officer | Morongo Casino Resort & Spa
Read More

Mridula Rahmsdorf

Chief Revenue Officer | IKASI
Read More

Kenneth Rohman

Executive Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer | Wind Creek Hospitality
Read More

Saverio Scheri

Chief Operations Officer | Agua Caliente Resort Casino & Spa
Read More

Scott Sirois

General Manager | Meskwaki Bingo Casino Hotel
Read More

Mary Smith

Senior Vice President | Four Winds Casinos South Bend
Read More

Josh Williams

Vice President of Strategy and Technology | Catalyst
Read More

Jason Wolfe

Chief Executive Officer | PerfectGift
Read More

Joe Young

Director of Gaming Operations | Table Mountain Casino Resort
Read More

Forum Partners

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Sunday Opening Reception Sponsor

Monday Night Dinner Reception

Media Sponsors

Golf Outing Sponsor

Forum Partners

General Managers & Casino Executives