In Response to the EETF's Efforts to Enhance LCB Student S Experience, an Unknown Need

To: Lundquist College of Business EETF From: Jarrod McClung Date: November 5th, 2013 Subject: International Enrichment through Indian Gaming In response to the EETF's efforts to enhance LCB student’s experience, an unknown need has arisen that students are not exposed to the industry of tribal business, primarily Indian gaming. Included in this memo is an overview and benefits to why this exposure is necessary for students and a solution to introduce that experience. Overview of Indian gaming Indian gaming is a fast growing industry, primarily on the east and west coasts. According to the 500 nation’s website, tribal casinos generate over 30 billion dollars in revenue each year. This revenue is also showing a steady average increase of 3% each year. 44% of all gaming revenue comes from tribal operations. Since Indian gaming was recognized in 1987 by the Supreme Court, casinos have become a vital part of many tribe's economy. Out of 565 federally recognized tribes, 242 own and operate casinos. These casinos produce a workforce of approximately 628,000 employees. In WA, OR and CA alone there are 110 tribal casinos. The Northwest possess a large portion of Indian gaming which students are not currently aware of. Benefits to LCB students In a unique way, tribal business should also be seen as international. Government and laws on reservations differ from the rest of the country. Students don’t know what they need until someone tells them they need it. Through exposing students to this industry, they can obtain benefits such as:  Prospective jobs in the fields of business and accounting  Indian gaming's effect on the Pacific Northwest  Cultural competency The Native American Student Union on campus practices culture but does not provide students with knowledge of how tribal business works. The Native American Studies minor was recently implemented but only provide classes in the departments of English, Philosophy and Anthropology. Lack of exposure to this industry now may handicap graduates when their future employers have tribes as clients. Potential Pathways Exposure to Indian gaming is definitely an open ended need. Listed below are two plausible options to create that exposure effectively. Symposium The first aspect of the symposium is workshops. These will be led by professionals that currently work for the nine tribes in Oregon. Multiple departments such as accounting, compliance and management will present to give that variety. A luncheon will also take place during the symposium. Indian tacos will be provided by the Native American Student Union to give students exposure to the culture. Eating amongst professionals allow the students to network for future references. Club Presentations A keynote series could be implemented within the various LCB clubs. Depending upon the club, a Native American professional would be invited to speak. Attendees will gain the perspective of someone who has hands on experience in the Northwest gaming industry and how culture comes into play in their field. When one speaker is present, it is easier for a student to connect with person, preferably on LinkedIn. With all this in mind, these pathways on Indian gaming will give students international enrichment. They will gain cultural competency, intro knowledge of Indian gaming in the Northwest as well as networking opportunities. Implement one of these options and it will act as a precursor for Native American businesses to be incorporated into other areas of the Lundquist College of Business as well as increase awareness of this field to students. Thank you for taking the time to read the prospects of these pathways.