Reno – Woodburn & Wedge announced that former shareholder Edward G. Stevenson will return to the firm where he started his gaming law career more than four decades ago. He will serve as Of Counsel to the firm, which is Nevada’s oldest independent law firm.
Stevenson is retiring this year from his role as President and CEO of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) Gaming Enterprise, which is located just outside of Minneapolis, Minn. In his 20 years as CEO with the SMSC Gaming Enterprise, he led the development of Mystic Lake Casino Hotel and Little Six Casino into the Midwest’s top resort and gaming destination.
“Woodburn & Wedge is one of the most respected law firms in Nevada. I’m looking forward to returning to my roots and believe my extensive business experience will be of value to the many talented attorneys practicing at the firm,” said Stevenson.
Stevenson began his 40-year gaming career in 1974 as an attorney and subsequent shareholder of Woodburn & Wedge, representing several Nevada gaming companies. He was appointed General Counsel for Harvey’s Resort Casinos at Lake Tahoe, Nev., in 1982 and was named Chief Operating Officer of Harvey’s the following year. In 1988 he partnered with International Game Technology (IGT) to purchase and operate several Nevada casinos, and he served as President of IGT’s operations division.
Stevenson is a member of the Nevada and California Bars, the American Bar association, Washoe County Bar Association, and the International Association of Gaming Advisors. Stevenson has held gaming licenses in multiple states and jurisdictions. His long-time community service has included roles as President of the Reno Philharmonic Association and the City of Sparks Chamber of Commerce; board member of PresentNation LLC, Saints Healthcare Foundation, the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority, and Sierra Nevada Boy Scout Council; and volunteer to numerous charitable efforts.
“We are excited to welcome Ed back to our firm,” said John Murtha, Managing Shareholder at Woodburn & Wedge. “Ed’s vast experience both as a lawyer and as CEO of such a successful, respected gaming enterprise will be of great benefit to our clients. While Ed will not resume his legal practice, his business acumen will be welcomed by our attorneys and clients.”
Stevenson received his Juris Doctorate degree and Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from the University of San Francisco. He divides his time between Minneapolis, Minn. and Reno, Nev.