The National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) has bid farewell to its esteemed General Counsel, Michael Hoenig, who is embarking on a new chapter in his career. Effective January 27, Hoenig will join the ranks of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians as Vice President and Associate General Counsel for Gaming. His departure marks the end of a significant era at the NIGC and heralds a fresh opportunity for him to contribute his expertise in the realm of tribal gaming.
A Distinguished Tenure at NIGC:
Having embarked on his journey with the NIGC in 2006, Michael Hoenig has held various pivotal roles, including Staff Attorney, Senior Attorney, Associate General Counsel, and culminating in his role as General Counsel. Throughout his tenure, Hoenig exhibited a solution-oriented approach, driving the institutionalization of novel practices within the General Counsel’s office. This approach not only enhanced the agency’s legal operations but also fostered the growth of an exceptional legal team.
New Horizons:
Michael Hoenig’s transition to the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians as Vice President and Associate General Counsel for Gaming represents a noteworthy juncture in his career. In this capacity, he will offer his strategic guidance and counsel on a spectrum of issues, particularly those concerning gaming and other matters governed by the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA). This role underscores the continued importance of preserving tribal gaming as a cornerstone of economic prosperity within Indian country.
NIGC’s Acknowledgment:
E. Sequoyah Simermeyer, the Chairman of NIGC, expressed his gratitude for Hoenig’s exceptional contributions and leadership. Simermeyer highlighted Hoenig’s instrumental role in driving innovative practices and fostering a dynamic legal team at NIGC. As Hoenig embarks on this new venture, he carries with him a legacy of impactful contributions and a reputation as a respected voice in the realm of tribal gaming regulation.
Hoenig’s Reflections:
In his departure, Michael Hoenig shared his mixed emotions and profound gratitude for his journey at NIGC. He articulated his privilege to have worked alongside dedicated staff to advance the mission of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. Hoenig’s sentiments encapsulate his deep commitment to protecting tribal gaming’s economic significance within Indian country. His transition to the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians signifies a continuation of this mission from a fresh perspective.
Michael Hoenig’s departure from the NIGC marks a significant turning point, reflecting a culmination of achievements and the pursuit of new horizons. As he embraces his role with the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Hoenig’s expertise and dedication are poised to make a profound impact on the tribal gaming landscape. His legacy at NIGC endures, and his new role reaffirms the enduring commitment to advancing the interests of tribal gaming and Indian country as a whole.