Michigan Gaming Control Board names new executive director

(PRESS RELEASE) -- Henry Williams became executive director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board today following a 34-1 roll call confirmation vote in the Michigan Senate on Thursday.

“I am honored to begin my appointment as executive director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board,” said Williams following his confirmation by the Michigan Senate on May 13. “I look forward to leading the agency’s continuing success and thank outgoing Executive Director Richard S. Kalm for his leadership and the opportunities he provided that paved the way for my appointment.”

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced Williams’ appointment to a six-year term as executive director on April 23. The term begins today.

Williams has 20 years of experience working at the MGCB and most recently was deputy director for the agency’s Casino Operations division. The division regulates the Detroit commercial casinos, issues occupational licenses, houses the agency’s Gaming Lab and manages self-exclusion programs for problem gamblers.

Williams began his career in state government in 1997 and previously worked in various positions as a juvenile justice worker, family independence specialist, protective services worker and probation officer.

A resident of Detroit, Williams earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Marygrove College. He is a licensed social worker in the State of Michigan.