The American Gaming Association (AGA) has unveiled the trio of industry pioneers who will be enshrined in the 2025 Gaming Hall of Fame. David Berman, Ann Simmons Nicholson, and Charles Lombardo—figures whose careers have left indelible marks on the legal gaming landscape—will receive the industry’s highest distinction this October at the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas.

Launched in 1989, the Gaming Hall of Fame was created to spotlight those whose leadership has propelled both commercial and tribal gaming sectors. This year’s honorees, who have each made notable advancements across finance, operations, and workforce development, will be formally celebrated during an exclusive ceremony at the upcoming G2E.

“The Gaming Hall of Fame honors the visionaries who’ve shaped today’s gaming industry,” said AGA President and CEO Bill Miller in the official press release. “David, Ann, and Charlie have each made lasting contributions to the growth, integrity, and leadership of legal gaming, and we’re proud to recognize their impact.”

AGA Chairman Mike Rumbolz, himself a 2022 Hall of Fame inductee, echoed that sentiment. “This year’s inductees reflect the strength, diversity, and expertise that define our industry,” he stated. “The Gaming Hall of Fame honors leaders whose careers exemplify excellence and enduring influence – and these three couldn’t be more deserving of this recognition.”

Honoring Careers That Defined Modern Gaming

David Berman currently serves as Co-Head of Macquarie Capital, Americas, and Global Head of Consumer, Gaming & Leisure. With over 30 years in the gaming financial sector, Berman has orchestrated more than 100 merger and acquisition deals valued in excess of $125 billion. His efforts in raising over $215 billion in capital for clients place him among the foremost figures in gaming finance.

Before joining Macquarie, Berman founded REGAL Capital Advisors, a boutique gaming-focused advisory firm later acquired by Macquarie in 2011. His earlier career includes high-ranking roles at Credit Suisse, CIBC World Markets, and Oppenheimer & Co. Outside of his financial accomplishments, Berman lends his expertise to the Board of Leaders at the University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business and holds the role of Treasurer for the Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Foundation.

Ann Simmons Nicholson, Founder and CEO of Simmons Group, has built a four-decade career centered on strategic business consulting and human capital management within the gaming industry. Her portfolio includes involvement in more than 60 major property launches, expansions, and acquisitions across nearly every significant gaming brand.

Her firm’s training programs have impacted over 27,000 professionals globally, focusing on executive development, organizational culture, and leadership alignment. Nicholson’s influence extends beyond business, having held positions on various community and industry boards, including United Way of Southern Nevada, Global Gaming Women, and Noah’s Animal House.

Charles Lombardo brings over 50 years of experience in slot operations and innovation to the Hall of Fame. His career has included pivotal roles at Caesars Palace, Bally’s, Paris Las Vegas, and Seminole Hard Rock Gaming. His leadership was instrumental in developing the framework for both Class II and Class III gaming systems and in advancing new slot machine technologies.

Lombardo also played a crucial role in shaping regulatory standards for both state and tribal gaming sectors. Today, he continues to influence the industry as a consultant on game design and casino openings and acts as a special gaming advisor to Seminole Gaming. Notably, he was the first person inducted into the Eilers Hall of Fame for Slot Operations.

Selection Committee Highlights Diverse Industry Expertise

The individuals responsible for selecting this year’s inductees represent a cross-section of gaming leadership and academia. The committee includes Circa Resorts VP of Operations Mike Palm; Wondr Nation CEO Anika Howard; Ainsworth COO and AGEM Chair Ryan Comstock; and Debi Nutton, a Hall of Fame Class of 2024 member and industry consultant.

Also participating were Mark Lipparelli, Chairman Emeritus of the International Center for Responsible Gaming; IAGA Executive Director Kirsten Clark; Lauren Bates, VP of Sales at Light & Wonder and Chair of Global Gaming Women; UNLV International Gaming Institute’s Executive Director Brett Abarbanel; and AGA Chairman Mike Rumbolz.