Watkins to depart Nevada Gaming Control Board when term ends this month

Jan 22, 2025 Story by: Editor

Nevada Gaming Control Board member Brittnie Watkins’ four-year term is set to conclude at the end of January, with Gov. Joe Lombardo’s office preparing to appoint her successor.

During Wednesday’s meeting, Watkins announced her upcoming departure. “This will be my final Board meeting, and I want to provide that I am honored to have served in this position,” she said. “I have learned so much and grown so much personally and professionally. The friendships that I have gathered here are going to last a lifetime.”

Appointed in 2021 by former Gov. Steve Sisolak to succeed Terry Johnson, Watkins joined the Board as the gaming industry began recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Her background as a lawyer specializing in complex commercial litigation, particularly in gaming, equipped her for the role.

The Nevada Gaming Control Board, comprising three members, advises the Nevada Gaming Commission on licensing and gaming policy issues.

“The opportunity to see the gaming industry from this perspective has been absolutely priceless,” Watkins remarked. “I want to thank both Gov. Sisolak and Gov. Lombardo for their support of my service in this position. I am truly grateful. I want to thank Chair [Kirk] Hendrick and Board member [Judge George] Assad. Sitting at the table with you two has truly been eye-opening. Our perspectives from different walks of life and collaboration and comradery, discussions, and deliberations have truly helped me to see different perspectives and have different understandings. I am very grateful for that.”

Watkins expressed her gratitude to the Board staff and division chiefs for aiding her understanding of the gaming industry, commending their professionalism. She also praised the Gaming Commission and the gaming industry for their innovative and collaborative efforts.

“I leave the Board entirely fulfilled by the challenges and rewards and learning,” Watkins said. “There is no other opportunity like this, and I’m truly grateful for it.”

Chairman Hendrick acknowledged Watkins’ contributions, recalling her supportive approach. “The day I assumed my role, she walked into my office and asked what she could do to help. I greatly appreciate that,” Hendrick said.

Board member Assad echoed Hendrick’s sentiments, highlighting Watkins’ support when he joined the Board. “She helped me hit the ground running,” he said, adding that her departure would allow her to spend more time with her new child and expressing confidence in her continued success in the industry.

Watkins’ academic achievements include two bachelor’s degrees from Michigan State University, a master’s degree in criminal justice, a Doctor of Philosophy in educational psychology, and both a Juris Doctor and a Master of Laws in gaming and regulations from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. In 2020, she became the first Black woman elected to the State Bar of Nevada Board of Governors. She also served as a judicial law clerk for former Nevada Supreme Court Justice Michael L. Douglas. Source: CDC Gaming