2025 Board Election Candidates
NCPG Members have the privilege and responsibility to vote on those who serve on the NCPG Board of Directors.
Explore the information below for details about each candidate and their responses to the candidate’s nomination questionnaire.
Affiliates Seat Candidates
Diana Goode
Executive Director, Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling
Candidate Statement
Self-directed and passionate leaders are critical to NCPG’s mission. An organization that differentiates itself through successful outreach, education and partnerships is best equipped to fund programs, advocate for change and stimulate conversation. NCPG’s mission to support those impacted by gambling-related harm, reflects my own values and passion, and that motivates me to become more involved with the NCPG Board. My career has been distinguished by key leadership positions, where I have had great success in directing innovative fundraising initiatives, public outreach strategies and meaningful promotional campaigns. As a long-time executive director, fund raiser and volunteer, I offer a broad expertise in grant management, non-profit administration, major donor solicitation, communications, and employee inclusion. In addition, while serving as a Board member for various non-profits, I continue to gain an understanding of the industry from many angles. Creative solutions and staff motivation are paramount in non-profit management, and I offer both practical experience and an appreciation for innovation. The CT Council on Problem Gambling also has close ties to our federal legislative leadership and have assisted them with press conference and legislative language as we advocate for continued safeguards and national funding.
Candidate Bio
I have been with the CT Council since May 2018. I have 25 years of leadership experience and passion in the nonprofit sector and enjoy using this experience to raise awareness about problem and responsible gambling. I previously held executive-level positions with Foodshare, Gifts of Love and the Community Farm of Simsbury (AKA Farm to Family) and Operation Fuel where I was responsible for providing leadership, raising funds and designing new and innovative programs. I currently serve as an NCPG Board Member and served as the Secretary of the NCPG Affiliates Committee. Community participation and involvement is important to me; I previously served as a board member for the Community Farm of Simsbury, Gackstatter Family Foundation, Avon Land Trust, and Farmington River Watershed. In addition, I completed the Hartford Foundation Executive Management course and am a member of a Leadership Circle that continues to network with other executive directors in the area. I am a graduate of Dartmouth College, and I received an MBA in Finance and Marketing from UCONN.
Wiley Harwell
Executive Director, Oklahoma Association on Problem Gambling and Gaming
Candidate Statement
I bring an eclectic skill base with knowledge in non-profit organizations, organizational development, team building skills, management skills, a professional counselor, certified problem gambling counselor, certified trainer for problem gambling certification, trainer for Basic Training in a five-state region. Run the problem gambling helpline, a state-wide self-exclusion program and interact with all of the tribes for responsible gambling programs. We also developed the first Evive digital platform for the citizens of Oklahoma.
Candidate Bio
Wiley D. Harwell, DMin, LPC, ICGC-II, is the executive director of the Oklahoma Association on Problem Gambling and Gaming. Wiley has a Doctor of Ministry degree from Southern Methodist University, a Master of Divinity from Southern Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky and a bachelor’s degree from Wayland Baptist University. Wiley is a licensed professional counselor, a certified employee assistance professional, advanced certification in hypnotherapy, and is an International Certified Gambling Counselor-II. OAPGG is the official affiliate of the National Council on Problem Gambling. As the affiliate, Wiley administers the Oklahoma Helpline, leads training for certification to become a certified gambling counselor, works with tribes to promote responsible gambling, promotes awareness for problem gambling to the public and government officials, and works in cooperation with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse as an advocate for all aspects of problem gambling issues. In July 2012, Wiley was elected to serve as a board member of the National Council on Problem Gambling and was reelected in 2015 for a total of six years and is completing a third term. Wiley served as president of the NCPG board of directors in 2015-2017. Wiley resides in Norman, is married and has four children, and six grandchildren.
Lori Manson
Problem Gambling Services Coordinator, AdCare Educational Institute & Board Member, Maine Council on Problem Gambling
Candidate Statement
For six years, I’ve been involved in numerous NCPG volunteer opportunities. Serving on the Board would be an honor, and it seems like a logical next step. During my three-year tenure as chair of the NCPG Affiliates Committee, I experienced the satisfaction of making a difference at the national level, while gaining experience and making connections that benefit the people in my state. I’ve been involved with the Prevention Committee for 5 years, served as judge on several rounds of Agility Grants, volunteered on-site at the national conference, and served on the Conference Workgroup. During NCPG’s recent strategic planning initiative, I was engaged in several aspects of the process. Serving on workgroups and offering feedback for revisions to documents such as the By-Laws and Volunteer Handbook, took my understanding of NCPG to a deeper level. In Maine, due to limited funding, I’m the only person in the state working full-time on problem gambling. I have immersed myself in the field and gained knowledge and experience in the entire continuum of awareness, prevention, intervention, treatment, recovery, and workforce development. This has required me to hone a wide variety of skills. Most of all, I enjoy talking to people in my state as I help them through the self-exclusion process and/or discuss what services and resources will be most helpful to them at this point in their journey. I am living NCPG’s vision, mission, and core values daily and I’m hoping to take the next step by serving on the Board.
Candidate Bio
My degrees are in Business Management and my advanced credentials were in human resources. My position in workforce development unexpectedly led me to my true passion which is working to reduce the harm of problem gambling for people in my state and beyond. I find great satisfaction in advancing the availability of resources and services, reducing invisibility & stigma, and helping those impacted by problem gambling to find what they need to best serve them as they work on their current goals. When I’m involved in something, I jump in with both feet and work hard to complete assignments with attention to detail and quality. I follow through on tasks in a timely manner. I am known for coming to meetings fully prepared, having brainstormed and made notes about what I expect to need to know to engage effectively with the agenda. When I worked in human resources, I did a LOT of hiring. I was successful at hiring people who didn’t necessarily look like the best fit on paper, but went on to have long, successful careers with the company. Some of the people I hired in entry-level roles are now senior managers and vice presidents. I’d like to help hire the next Executive Director of NCPG. I feel that my understanding of the role and the organization and my instincts on what personal attributes make a successful candidate would be useful to the Board and NCPG at this important, pivotal time.
Dave Wohl
Executive Director, Illinois Council on Problem Gambling
Candidate Statement
Serving on a board is an opportunity to support meaningful work at a strategic level, help shape the future of the organization, and collaborate with others who share a commitment to positive social impact. While I’m still learning about problem gambling, I believe I can add value in other ways—particularly in organizational management and planning. I also believe that bringing in new perspective can challenge assumptions, spark innovation, and offer insights that complement the experience of long-standing professionals in the field. Before joining the Illinois Council on Problem Gambling in 2023, I spent over three decades working in healthcare, including five years as Vice President of Operations at a small rural hospital in Michigan. My background in hospital administration has equipped me with a strong foundation for nonprofit board service. Operating in a complex, mission-driven healthcare environment has helped me develop key skills in operational planning, financial oversight, regulatory compliance, and efficiency—all of which translate well to the governance and strategic planning responsibilities of a nonprofit board. Though I’m new to this specific field, I feel that i can bring a fresh perspective, a collaborative spirit, and a deep respect for the work being done to address problem gambling.
Candidate Bio
My educational background includes a BS in Psychology from Arizona State University, an MS in Sports Medicine from West Virginia University, and an MBA from Western Governors University. I’m also a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE). I began my career in patient care as an athletic trainer, working across a variety of settings over the span of ~20 years—including high school, collegiate, and professional sports, as well as industrial and outpatient clinical rehabilitation. From that experience, I bring several transferable skills relevant to board service: * Interpersonal & Communication Skills – Building trust with athletes, coaches, parents, and medical professionals sharpened my ability to communicate clearly and collaborate across diverse groups—skills that directly translate to working with board members, donors, and stakeholders. * Teamwork & Leadership – As a member of multidisciplinary healthcare teams, I learned how to lead, support, and unify different perspectives around a common goal—an essential dynamic for effective nonprofit governance. * Ethical Standards & Accountability – Athletic training required a high level of ethical practice and professional accountability, both critical to board-level responsibility. After my years as an athletic trainer, I moved into progressive healthcare leadership roles, including clinic manager, department director, and roles in population health—ultimately serving in hospital administration. These experiences developed additional competencies that align well with board service, including: * Strategic & Operational Expertise * Financial Stewardship * Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management * Mission-Driven Community Focus * Data-Informed Decision-Making I believe this blend of clinical, operational, and leadership experience positions me to contribute meaningfully as a board member.
Glenn Yamagata
Economist and Data Scientist, Problem Gambling Solutions, Inc.
Candidate Statement
I am volunteering to serve on the NCPG Board because I strongly believe in its mission to reduce harm from gambling problems through collaborative efforts involving a coalition of individuals and organizations. While I have not personally experienced gambling harm, I have been alcohol-free for over six years and understand the importance of supporting an organization that provides relief for those who are struggling. Professionally, I am an economist and statistician with a background in management consulting. I specialize in helping organizations develop and execute strategic plans based on management principles and data-driven insights. I have experience diagnosing organizational challenges, identifying root causes, and implementing practical, high-impact solutions. As an applicant for one of the Affiliate Board seats, I share much in common with other Executive Directors and leaders of affiliate organizations. Each affiliate has its own strengths and plays a distinct role in its state. The Oregon Council on Problem Gambling (OCPG), where I currently serve as Executive Director, is focused on gambling-related research. My background in research design, methodology, and statistical analysis would be a valuable asset to the Board. I am eager to contribute to an organization that drives meaningful change through thought leadership and advocacy, and to work alongside a dedicated Board of Directors committed to advancing its mission. Thank you very much for your consideration.
Candidate Bio
Over the past six years, I have worked at Problem Gambling Solutions, Inc., where I’ve helped design and evaluate large-scale problem gambling prevention and treatment systems, developed and analyzed gambling-related surveys, and supported the integration of problem gambling services into opioid treatment programs, among other related projects. This experience has given me a strong foundation in implementing systems aimed at reducing gambling-related harm. Previously, I spent seven years as a management consultant, working with large organizations on systems analysis, go-to-market strategies, customer lifecycle management, marketing spend optimization, operations, and analytics capability building. This background equips me to support NCPG across many of its strategic initiatives. I have also served as Director of Analytics for three years, where I managed the analytics agenda and oversaw marketing campaigns utilizing a contact list of 30 million emails and 10 million physical mailing addresses. This experience would be useful for NCPG’s fundraising and direct marketing efforts. I am currently the Executive Director of the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling, a position I have held for nine months. Our organization primarily focuses on workforce development and supporting Oregon-specific gambling-related research. We maintain strong relationships with the Oregon Health Authority Problem Gambling Services, Oregon Lottery, Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association (whose members host VLTs), and other industry stakeholders. By building trust and aligning shared interests, we have been able to advance our mission of minimizing gambling-related harm among Oregonians. Thank you for your time and consideration of my application.
Individuals Seat Candidates
Stephanie Diez-Morel
Professor, Reboot & Recover
Candidate Statement
I am honored to offer my service on the Board of Directors of the National Council on Problem Gambling. As a licensed clinical social worker, academic researcher, and founder of Reboot & Recover—a nonprofit dedicated to behavioral addictions—I bring a unique blend of clinical expertise, innovation, and community engagement to support NCPG’s mission. My commitment to addressing behavioral health challenges spans nearly two decades, with a focus on marginalized and underserved populations. My academic research centers on technology-related addictions, and I’ve developed evidence-based interventions and educational resources that align with NCPG’s goals of prevention, awareness, and treatment access. As an educator, I’ve trained the next generation of behavioral health professionals to respond to gambling-related issues with cultural competence and ethical integrity—reflecting NCPG’s core values. I am especially passionate about helping advance NCPG’s strategic priorities around public awareness, inclusion, and research. I bring skills in program development, grant writing, bilingual outreach (English/Spanish), and organizational leadership, which I believe can enhance NCPG’s impact and reach. I would be proud to support the Council’s efforts to create a national conversation around problem gambling and ensure that support is accessible to all individuals and families affected. Thank you for considering my candidacy.
Candidate Bio
Dr. Stephanie Diez (pronouns: she/her) is a professor of graduate social work and MSW Program Director at Pennsylvania Western University. Dr. Diez has authored numerous scientific journal articles and presentations. She has appeared in international media to discuss the convergence of gaming and gambling, as well as other behavioral health concerns. In 2013, Dr. Diez founded Reboot & Recover, a nonprofit organization dedicated to finding solutions for a balanced living in a technology driven world. She established education, prevention, treatment, and research on gaming disorder and other problematic technology-based behaviors for children, youth, adults, and families. Dr. Diez developed an evidenced based prevention curriculum for gambling in gaming with children ages 11-19. Dr. Diez utilizes her expertise in behavioral health and addictions to serve in various roles including as Emeritus Board Member of the International Problem Gambling and Gaming Certification Board (IPGGC). Dr. Diez is also the co-lead for the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) Gaming Disorder Taskforce. Dr. Diez also serves as the Treasurer on the Board of Trustees for Kindbridge Research Institute and as the National Association of Social Work’s Vice President of Finance. Dr. Diez continues her clinical practice as a licensed practitioner and splits her time between direct clinical practice, research, prevention work, teaching, and service to the community.
Jeremy Ray Eberle
Co-owner, Alternative Avenues and Associates
Candidate Statement
One of the reasons I am passionate about serving on the board is with the proliferation of expanded gambling, I truly believe we are going to see increased individuals who present to treatment for gambling problems. As such, I feel it is incumbent to do my part to ensure those individuals have a place to receive the quality ethical care they need to ensure they can reduce the damage incurred by their gambling. I have always felt the NCPG has done a phenomenal job of supporting and advocating for those impacted by problem gambling and their families. As far as skills I bring, I have demonstrated in previous board experience that I am a connector. I am good at spreading the message to individuals and connecting these individuals to the resources to be at their most effective. I have also led initiatives to increase membership and to make organizations run more efficiently. I have experience in marketing and public relations through my previous non-profit board terms.
Candidate Bio
I have been a counselor in the field of Problem Gambling for the past 16 years. I am currently in private practice and have been for the past 6 years. In 2022-2023, I have also served as Nebraska President of the Nebraska Counseling Association (NCA). During my time as President, the NCA tripled their membership due to the initiatives put in place by myself and the board. I also oversaw the selection of a new Executive Director for the NCA, updated our bylaws, developed a budget and facilitated 4 conferences which had record attendance. In 2023, I was elected to be the Chair-Elect for the Midwest Region of the American Counseling Association (ACA), succeeding as Chair of Midwest Region in July of 2024. My duties as the chair have been to supervise and run the business quarterly business meetings, develop the budget for the Region, be the liaison between Region members and the American Counseling Association. I supervised the 2024 Leadership Development Academy for the ACA Midwest in Fargo, North Dakota. I have presented at the Midwest Problem Gambling Conference, the National Problem Gambling Conference, the Nevada Problem Gambling Conference, the Nebraska Counseling Association Conference, the Midwest Region Leadership Development Academy and the Annual NAADAC Conference
Mina Hazar
Manager, National and Provincial Programs, YMCA of Greater Toronto
Candidate Statement
I am excited to express my interest in serving on the Board of Directors for NCPG. With over two decades of leadership in the nonprofit sector, I bring a strong commitment to prevention, education, and supporting individuals and families affected by problem gambling. As Director of National and Provincial Initiatives at the YMCA of Greater Toronto, I led the transformation of the Youth Gambling Awareness Program into an internationally recognized model. I also launched the Youth Cannabis Awareness Program and built the Youth Cannabis Knowledge Hub—resources developed in collaboration with youth and educators to address emerging public health issues. My experience spans program innovation, strategic partnerships, stakeholder engagement, and equitable service delivery. I have successfully managed large-scale funding agreements and implemented inclusive programming that meets the needs of diverse communities. My educational background includes a Master of Arts in Leadership, a Management Excellence Certificate from Harvard Business Publishing, and a B.Sc. in Computer Software Engineering. I am passionate about NCPG’s mission to reduce the impact of problem gambling and increase public awareness. I believe in the power of lived experience and storytelling to challenge stigma and foster understanding. By joining the Board, I aim to contribute meaningfully to NCPG’s strategic priorities—expanding services, promoting responsible gambling, and supporting recovery. I would be honored to bring my experience, insight, and deep dedication to community well-being to support NCPG’s important work.
Candidate Bio
Revenue Generation and Brand Development: I have successfully diversified funding streams to strengthen sustainability and impact. Highlights include securing national funding from Health Canada for the Youth Cannabis Awareness Program and developing a licensing model for YMCA education initiatives, creating a new revenue source. These efforts elevated the YMCA’s visibility on national and international platforms. Community and Industry Partnerships: I’ve built cross-sector relationships with community agencies, mental health and addiction partners, regulators, gaming manufacturers, and sports leagues. I led the creation of a Pan-Canadian Community of Practice to foster collaboration among prevention leaders, significantly expanding our collective reach. In partnership with OLG, I launched a youth peer education initiative, promoting informed decision-making around gambling. Research and Advisory Growth: With a commitment to evidence-based programming, I collaborated with CAMH to revise the Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey to better reflect youth experiences, supporting more accurate policy and funding decisions. I also developed a consultation network of over 250 stakeholders—youth, educators, clinicians, and policymakers—who contribute to program development, evaluation, and promotion. Strategic Vision and Execution: I’ve led strategic planning and implementation efforts that align vision and operations, driving innovation and long-term organizational success. Government Relations and Organizational Culture: Through strong relationships at all levels of government, I’ve secured sustained funding and policy support. I champion inclusive, collaborative work environments that empower staff, support innovation, and deliver measurable results.
Abdullah Mahmood
Administrative Coordinator of the Gambling Intervention Program, Maryhaven
Candidate Statement
I am applying to the board of directors because I agree with NCPG’s mission of reducing gambling-related harm and ensuring consumer protections through RG. I have been in the field of problem gambling for about three years now. I have worked at Problem Gambling Network of Ohio, facilitating training, advocating, and working to expand Ohio’s problem gambling workforce. I now serve on their board of directors. I am currently employed by Maryhaven, a local nonprofit treatment center in Columbus, OH. We have a dedicated gambling program that I oversee and manage. I also see clients directly for gambling-related harm. I also engage in speaking events, training, and at conferences. Having years of experience not only in problem gambling but also in mental health and substance use, I believe I can become an asset to NCPG’s board of directors.
Candidate Bio
Abdullah Mahmood, LSW, LCDCIII-GAMB, ICGC-I, OCPS, ICPS has worked extensively in prevention, treatment, administration, as well as having direct services with clients on MAT, clients with substance use disorder, and clients with disordered gambling. He oversees the gambling intervention program at Maryhaven, a local treatment agency in Columbus, OH. He has also worked previously with the Problem Gambling Network of Ohio and now serves on their board of directors. Abdullah attended Columbus State Community College for his associate’s degree and attended The Ohio State University, where he recently completed a bachelor’s degree in Social Work. He is currently working towards his master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Cleveland State University.
Brian Ward
Certified Gambling Recovery Mentor, Voices of Problem Gambling Recovery
Candidate Statement
I believe that NCPG was founded on the idea of recognizing and working to diminish gambling harm, on a national level. As someone with lived experience of gambling harm, I also believe that having a robust board representation of lived experience will help direct NCPG towards continued efforts that prevent, treat and provide services for gambling harm.
Candidate Bio
I come with 8 years of Recovery Experience from gambling related harm. While I do work in the recovery field, this career is also largely dependant on that lived experience. I serve on the board of Directors for a local Non-profit, Voices of Problem Gambling Recovery, as Board President. I am someone who believes that collaboration and freedom are the most effective tools at combating gambling harm.
Alison Wood
Youth Prevention Coordinator, North Carolina Problem Gambling Program with TELUS Health
Candidate Statement
Eight years of experience in problem gambling prevention. Twenty years of experience managing nonprofit and government organizations in the areas of health and wellness, developing speeches, presentations, and trainings, and implementing, monitoring, and evaluating evidenced-based programs. Fifteen years of experience creating grant and contractual language, reviewing grants, implementing the full grant cycle, and technical support. Ten years of experience working with board, committee members, and staff to support organizations in fund development, strategic planning, marketing, board development, and financial management. Seven years of experience managing youth prevention education research grant projects, event implementation, and delivering presentations to adolescents and adults based on evidence-based theories and best practices. Three years of experience in delivering the Community Resiliency Model curriculum to adults and youth, providing mental health counseling at a nonprofit, developing evidence-informed curriculum in mental health promotion and youth prevention education.
Candidate Bio
Alison Wood is the NC Problem Gambling Program Youth Prevention Coordinator with TELUS Health. She manages over 40 statewide prevention grants and trains and provides technical support to school staff on adolescent problematic behaviors in gambling, gaming, and digital media use. She assisted in editing the guidebook for the Second Edition of Stacked Deck and translated the curriculum into a learning management system. The program evaluation proved that the learning management system is an effective teaching tool for youth prevention education. Alison has partnered with researchers to develop curriculum in emotional regulation skills building, digital media literacy, gaming, gambling, and problematic internet media use. All the curriculum has been introduced into schools in North Carolina who have grants with the program and were proven effective. She was also a part of a team that wrote and was awarded an NCPG Agility Grant to have curriculum in problem gambling and gaming embedded into 7th grade health classes reaching over 14,000 students in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg school system. She has spearheaded an initiative to provide prevention and treatment of gambling, gaming, and digital media use modules with UNC Behavioral Health Springboard. In 2023, Alison continued her education in Mental Health Promotion and became a certified Community Resiliency Model instructor. She is an advocate for mental health promotion and youth prevention education, and she is a partner in the effort to continue to add social emotional learning in schools as directed in the school mental health policy.
Organizational Seat Candidates
Jade Luchauer
Senior Manager, Global Sustainability, IGT
Candidate Statement
In my 10+ years of engagement with the NCPG, I have had the opportunity to see how the organization has evolved. Especially in this time of technology and change in Director, solid support is needed from the Board to direct the organization into the future. I believe the experience I bring from my vast career representing a variety of stakeholders from social services to treatment provides insight that would be valuable for strategic planning. I also see the need for industry insight and collaboration as society navigates a greater need to bring the unique needs of emerging adults engaging in more gambling activity to the forefront. The need for better prevention and age appropriate RG tools is needed. I believe I can help bridge the gap in this area. I lean on my experience at the Indiana and Rhode Island affiliates to bring that perspective to the table as well. I believe every organization should have champions that advocate all stakeholders.
Candidate Bio
Jade Luchauer started her career working for a non-profit Community Action Agency in Southern Indiana before working in the private sector and then Indiana State government. She has managed tobacco cessation programs, rural health outreach programs and clinic development, afterschool prevention programming, emergency food assistance programs from the USDA, the AARP money management program, and a variety of state programs that include the Older Americans Act programs, CHOICE program, Medicaid Waiver programs, and other programs for the elderly and disabled. Prior to her role at IGT she was the Director of the Bureau of Developmental Disabilities Services for the State of Indiana overseeing all aspects of service. At IGT, she worked on behalf of the Hoosier Lottery to achieve L4 responsible gaming certification for the operator. The second in the US to achieve this accomplishment. Later she moved on to a Global Sustainability role at IGT overseeing the company’s responsible gaming strategy across all business segments. She is responsible for certifications and everyday continuous improvement of the responsible gaming program. She also leads the Supporting Our Communities pillar for IGT and manages all community engagement and strategy. This includes working closely with non-profit stakeholders to support Sustainable Development Goals and create community impact. She also oversees all employee giving programs and serves as the administrator for IGT’s Social Impact Committee which oversees all community giving. She has served as a board member of both Indiana & Rhode Island Councils, as well as a long list of personal community engagement interests.
Jamie A. McKelvey
Deputy Attorney General & Responsible Gaming Coordinator, New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement
Candidate Statement
I am seeking to serve on the NCPG Board of Directors because I’m committed to advancing policies that meaningfully reduce gambling-related harm and strengthen responsible gaming practices. As a gaming regulator in New Jersey focused on responsible gaming and problem gambling, I see firsthand how critical it is for public policy to evolve alongside the industry and respond to problems that arise, particularly as online wagering expands. NCPG’s mission aligns closely with the work I lead every day: ensuring that regulatory frameworks prioritize consumer protection while also supporting innovation. I value NCPG’s role in promoting a national conversation grounded in research, compassion, and collaboration. I’m particularly interested in helping to further NCPG’s strategic goals around integrating problem gambling into the broader public health system and reducing stigma. If elected, I will bring to the Board a collaborative approach, ongoing impactful legal and regulatory experience, and an ability to work across agencies and with industry stakeholders. I’m especially eager to contribute to initiatives that expand access to prevention and treatment resources, promote data-informed best practices, and build stronger connections between regulators, advocates, and healthcare professionals. It would be an honor to support NCPG’s ongoing efforts and help ensure its leadership remains responsive to the changing needs of the field and the individuals and families it serves.
Candidate Bio
I am a Deputy Attorney General with the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement and serve as the Division’s Responsible Gaming Coordinator. In this role, I focus on regulatory compliance, and lead initiatives to strengthen responsible gaming policy, and evaluate new technologies for alignment with consumer protection standards. I work closely with internal teams and external stakeholders to integrate responsible gaming principles across both internet and land-based gaming. I’ve drafted best practices, contributed to the modernization of self-exclusion systems, and had the honor to serve on the New Jersey Governor’s Responsible Gaming Task Force, where I contributed to statewide policy development and strategic planning. My work is driven by a belief that regulation and public health must work hand in hand. I regularly collaborate with operators, researchers, and advocates to promote evidence-based strategies, and I speak at conferences and panels on responsible gambling, gaming law, and the broader societal impacts of gambling. I would bring to the NCPG Board a unique blend of legal expertise, regulatory experience, and public health perspective. I’m passionate about advancing NCPG’s mission through thoughtful, collaborative leadership and helping to shape national best practices that reduce harm and empower players.
Amanda Quintana
Player Health Manager, Colorado Lottery
Candidate Statement
I am volunteering to serve on the NCPG Board of Directors because I care deeply about advancing the mission to reduce gambling-related harm and promote wellness. My professional and volunteer experience reflect a longstanding commitment to the field and to NCPG itself. I previously served as NCPG’s Program Manager, where I sustained and strengthened programs, provided leadership in responsible and problem gambling services, and contributed to nationwide initiatives like the Internet Responsible Gambling Standards. I also served as staff liaison to the DEI and Prevention Committees—deepening my understanding of how equity and inclusion must be at the heart of our work. Currently, I serve as Player Health Manager at the Colorado Lottery, where I lead efforts to fully integrate RG/PG initiatives and collaborate nationally to advance sustainable and healthy play. I’ve helped inspire other state lotteries to elevate their commitment to responsible gambling. In my continued involvement with NCPG, I volunteer on the Conference Planning Committee, the Agility Grant selection process, and as an assessor for the Responsible Gambling Verification Program. I’m also a member of the RG and Government Affairs Professional Resource Network and the DEI Committee. My experience and values have been shaped by the people and communities I’ve worked alongside. I bring strong relationships across the field, a collaborative spirit, and a genuine desire to create practical, inclusive solutions. It would be an honor to serve and contribute to NCPG’s continued growth as a national leader and advocate, committed to innovation, inclusion, and impact across communities.
Candidate Bio
Amanda Quintana is the Player Health Manager at the Colorado Lottery, where she serves as the subject matter expert on Responsible Gambling (RG) and leads efforts to integrate player health strategies into operations. She advises on RG policies, builds strategic partnerships, and supports state and national efforts to promote sustainable, health-centered approaches to gambling activity. Her work has helped inspire other gambling operators, vendors, and stakeholders to strengthen their own RG initiatives. Previously, Amanda was the Program Manager at the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), where she sustained and strengthened national programs, contributed to the Internet Responsible Gambling Standards, and provided leadership in responsible and problem gambling services. She also served as staff liaison to the DEI and Prevention Committees. Before joining NCPG, Amanda co-managed a regional resource center at the New York Council on Problem Gambling, establishing a network of licensed mental health professionals and ensuring individuals and families affected by problem gambling had access to treatment and recovery support. Her background in community-based addiction services continues to shape her systems-level approach to care, equity, and advocacy. Amanda has been a speaker at NCPG conferences and other national forums, sharing insights on responsible gambling, public health strategy, and cross-sector collaboration. She holds a Master’s in Population Health Management from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. A plant lover and dog mom, Amanda is passionate about advancing equity, promoting wellness, and creating population-level change that reflects the voices and needs of the communities she serves.
Richard Taylor
Director of Responsible Gambling, BetMGM
Candidate Statement
As Director of Responsible Gambling at BetMGM, I have dedicated my career to advancing player protection, promoting responsible gambling, and strengthening collaboration between operators, regulators, and advocates. I am applying to serve on the National Council on Problem Gambling Board because I believe deeply in NCPG’s mission to mitigate gambling-related harm and to champion a public health approach to problem gambling. Through my work leading BetMGM’s responsible gambling initiatives, I have seen firsthand the impact that thoughtful policy, proactive education, and innovative technology can have on reducing risk. I have developed national partnerships, contributed to cross-sector initiatives, and worked to integrate responsible gambling principles into every facet of the player experience. These experiences have reinforced my belief that sustainable progress is achieved through cooperation, transparency, and a commitment to continuous learning. I am passionate about helping NCPG advance its leadership role at a time when gambling is expanding rapidly across the country. If selected, I will bring a balanced perspective informed by both operational realities and a deep commitment to consumer protection. I hope to contribute meaningfully to the Council’s strategic goals, advocate for stronger industry standards, and help foster collaboration among stakeholders who share the common goal of minimizing gambling harm. Serving on the NCPG Board would be both an honor and an opportunity to continue driving positive change at a national level.
Candidate Bio
Richard L. Taylor, Jr. is the Director of Responsible Gambling for BetMGM where he oversees the company’s responsible gambling strategy, initiatives, and functions, including the GameSense program. Prior to this position, Richard worked for MGM Resorts International in a variety of roles including Responsible Gambling, Military Affairs, and Government Affairs. Richard serves on the National Council on Problem Gambling’s Military Committee, is a member of the Nevada Advisory Committee on Problem Gambling and is a board member for the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling. Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, he is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and proud graduate of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
