The CDC Gaming Reports bestowed an important recognition to Michigan Gaming Control Board Executive Director, Henry Williams (above), earlier this week. Williams has been named a 2024 Black Executive On The Rise.
Williams has been instrumental in making Michigan one of top gambling markets in the country. The Great Lakes State offers online sports betting, online casinos and retail properties. Williams has also made his mark in eliminating illegal gambling in the state and responsible gambling, protecting Michigan citizens.
Williams joins elite company with honor
Before he entered the gambling industry, Williams encountered a single mother in Detroit, as a social worker, who spent her last $30 for groceries at the casino, hoping to turn her fortunes around.
Since then, Williams has been in the gambling industry for 23 years, starting as a regulations officer at MotorCity Casino. He’s made it a point to prioritize fair gambling and support those in need.
“I am so honored to be recognized by CDC Gaming Reports and African Americans in Gaming, and to be in the company of such accomplished gaming industry leaders,” Williams said.
“I would especially like to thank Kim Barker Lee, Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer at Bally’s Corporation, who was recognized with this same honor last year and wanted to pay it forward by recognizing me this year. I get up every day to go to a job I love where it’s a privilege to witness — and be part of — an industry that thrives on progress.”
Williams has been with the MGCB since 2001, serving as the Deputy Director of Casino Operation Division. He stepped into the executive director role three years ago.
“In the world of gaming, I oversee a multibillion-dollar industry that requires individuals who are determined, focused, and resilient,” Williams said.
“My advice to others who want to do the same is to not be defined by the struggles you may face, do not let anyone tell you what you can and can’t achieve, and don’t ever stop believing in yourself. I never thought I’d have the job that I do today, but I do and I’m so proud to serve the great State of Michigan.”
Williams has made his mark combating illegal gambling
As previously stated, Williams and the MGCB is a stickler for illegal gambling. Over the last five years, the MGCB has collected of 436 machines, along with $176,001.69 in cash and $15,415 in Visa, Mastercard or gift cards since 2019. The Michigan Attorney General’s Office has also charged 29 individuals with 27 felonies and 16 misdemeanors.
The MGCB’s most recent raid, led by Williams, involved the Red Horse Bar in Saginaw, Michigan. The investigation found the following:
- 6 slot-style gaming machines
- $2,820 in gift cards
- $5,161 in suspected gambling proceeds
Also, the MGCB successfully settled an illegal gambling operation in Flint last month.
“I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Illegal gambling operations anywhere undermine the integrity of our regulated gaming industry everywhere,” Williams said after settling the case.
It also eradicated illegal online gambling by shutting down Bovada in June, an offshore sportsbook.
Williams is clearly the face of Michigan gambling, and helped grow the state into one of the most successful markets in the US.
