Steve Sutherland and Lori Nelson-Kraft have been named the recipients of the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers’ (AGEM) 2024 Memorial Awards. Sutherland will be honored with the Jens Halle Memorial Award for Excellence in Commercial Gaming Professionalism, while Nelson-Kraft will receive the Peter Mead Memorial Award for Excellence in Gaming Media & Communications. These awards will be presented at the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas, recognizing their significant contributions to the gaming industry.
Celebrating Excellence in Commercial Gaming
Steve Sutherland, with over three decades of experience in the gaming-supplier sector, has been a pivotal figure in the industry. Currently serving as the president and CEO of Konami Gaming, Sutherland has demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation. His career spans 25 years at Konami, where he has been instrumental in driving the company’s growth and success. Sutherland’s expertise in technology and gaming has made a lasting impact on the companies he has led, mentoring numerous executives who now lead global gaming supplier companies.
Sutherland’s recognition with the Jens Halle Memorial Award highlights his dedication to excellence in commercial gaming professionalism. The award honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the gaming industry, and Sutherland’s achievements exemplify this. His ability to lead, manage, and operate at a high level has set a benchmark for others in the industry. The AGEM Board of Directors Chair, Bob Parente, praised Sutherland for his executive mindset and lasting impact on the gaming-supplier sector.
The award ceremony at G2E will be a momentous occasion, celebrating Sutherland’s contributions and the legacy he has built. The Jens Halle Memorial Award is a testament to his commitment to the industry and his role in shaping its future. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, leaders like Sutherland play a crucial role in driving innovation and excellence.
Honoring a Leading Voice in Gaming Media
Lori Nelson-Kraft, the senior vice president of corporate affairs for the Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix, has been a prominent advocate for the gaming industry for nearly three decades. Starting her career at R&R Partners, Nelson-Kraft has been a leading voice for gaming interests, serving as the public spokesperson for Station Casinos (now Red Rock Resorts) for nearly 15 years. Her role at the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority further solidified her influence in the industry.
Nelson-Kraft’s recognition with the Peter Mead Memorial Award honors her excellence in gaming media and communications. The award celebrates individuals who have significantly contributed to the gaming industry’s media landscape. Nelson-Kraft’s energy, creativity, and drive have been instrumental in promoting the industry’s message and advocating for its interests. Her work has benefited gaming suppliers, operators, employees, and communities, making her a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.
The AGEM President, Daron Dorsey, highlighted Nelson-Kraft’s stewardship of the gaming industry’s message and her role in its ongoing journey for legitimacy and respect. Her contributions have been vital in shaping the industry’s narrative and promoting its growth. The award ceremony at G2E will recognize her achievements and the impact she has made on the gaming industry.
The Significance of the AGEM Awards
The AGEM Memorial Awards are a significant recognition within the gaming industry, honoring individuals who have made outstanding contributions. The awards ceremony at G2E is a highlight of the event, bringing together industry leaders and professionals to celebrate excellence. This year’s recipients, Steve Sutherland and Lori Nelson-Kraft, exemplify the qualities that the awards seek to recognize: professionalism, innovation, and dedication.
The Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas is the perfect venue for this celebration, showcasing the latest innovations and trends in the gaming industry. The awards ceremony will take place on October 9 at the G2E Networking Lounge, providing an opportunity for attendees to honor the achievements of Sutherland and Nelson-Kraft. Their recognition underscores the importance of leadership and advocacy in the gaming industry, inspiring others to strive for excellence.
As the gaming industry continues to grow and evolve, the contributions of individuals like Sutherland and Nelson-Kraft are crucial. Their dedication and achievements set a standard for others to follow, ensuring the industry’s continued success and innovation. The AGEM Memorial Awards highlight the significance of their work and the lasting impact they have made on the gaming community.
