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The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is the country’s leading responsible gambling spearhead organization. Last week, it announced two new members of its advisory board.
Ten of the board’s 2022 members remain the same. But two are new: Chair Christopher Herbert and Vice Chair Martin Lycka. NCPG Executive Director Keith Whyte said in a statement that he’s happy to have Herbert and Lycka leading the board.
“They have both been highly engaged leaders in our field for years, and we are excited to utilize their talents and expertise in a new way. I look forward to working closely with the full Advisory Board to advance the organization’s mission and our ambitious goals for the future.”
With March being Problem Gambling Awareness Month, you can read more about NCPG’s 2023 PGAM campaign and events.
Herbert brings high-level experience to NCPG board
Herbert, the new chair of the NCPG advisory board, is the director of the gaming division at the Lousiana Attorney General‘s office. Additionally, he’s been a Louisana assistant attorney general for nearly two decades.
Herbert is responsible for launching the state’s Problem Gambling Resources Services program along with the Louisiana Department of Health. He replaces Stacy Shaw, the former board chair who is a director at the Oregon Lottery.
“The National Council on Problem Gambling is unrivaled in its efforts to mitigate gambling-related harm in our country,” Hebert said. “I am humbled by the opportunity to serve as Advisory Board Chair for an organization at the forefront of protecting our citizens.”
Lycka’s experience with Entain Foundation’s responsible gambling programs
Lycka’s responsible gambling credentials come by way of his role as the trustee of Entain Foundation. The foundation launched in September 2019 to spearhead Entain’s corporate social responsibility programs focused on:
- Responsible gambling
- Sports Integrity
- Problem gambling education and treatment
- Gambling regulation research
When it launched, the program’s goal was to donate 100 million pounds in its first five years of operation.
“The National Council on Problem Gambling is widely recognized as a nationwide leader in problem gambling awareness, education and advocacy,” Lycka said. “I have been very supportive of their work for years as a member of their Advisory Board, and as such, it is an honor to be appointed their Vice Chair.”
2023 board loaded with regulatory and industry experts
The NCPG’s 2023 advisory board is replete with individuals who have in-depth experience. Their experience spans state-level regulatory bodies as well as casinos and industry operators.
- Kristen Clark: Executive director of the International Association of Gaming Advisors
- Steve Crosby: Massachusetts Gaming Commission founding member
- Don Feeney: On the Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling’s board of directors
- Nanette L. Horner: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City’s legal and general counsel VP
- Carlene Layugan: Director of Caesars’ responsible gaming program
- Ray Pinealut: Mohegan president and CEO
- Richard Schuetz: Runs his own gaming consultancy and former director of the California Gambling Control Commission
- Valeri Spicer: Vetnos chief gaming officer
- George Sweny: Flutter International regulatory affairs VP
- Marlene Warner: Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health’s executive director
Five of the board’s 12 members are also emeritus members of the NCPG Board of Directors.
