Welch, Minn. (August 24, 2026) — The Prairie Island Indian Community Tribal Council today announced the appointment of Mike Heavner as general manager of Treasure Island Resort & Casino, marking a significant milestone in a career that has spanned more than 25 years with Minnesota’s premier entertainment and gaming destination.
After starting as assistant controller of gaming in 2001, Heavner was promoted to director of finance in 2008 and oversaw all aspects of Treasure Island’s financial operations. While serving as director of finance for the last 18 years, Heavner has also held the interim general manager position on multiple occasions, including since March 2025. Under Heavner’s leadership as interim general manager, Treasure Island is on track for one of the strongest years in its 42-year history, marked by significant growth in visitation, guest satisfaction and team member engagement.
“For more than two decades, Mike has been an integral part of Treasure Island’s success,” said Prairie Island Indian Community Tribal Council President Grant Johnson. “His longevity, unwavering commitment to our team members and guests, and the trust he has built throughout the organization reflect the qualities we value most in a leader. We are confident that his vision, dedication and focus on sustaining the prosperity of the Prairie Island Indian Community will help guide Treasure Island’s continued success for many years to come.”
Known for his steady leadership style and collaborative approach, Heavner has consistently delivered strong business results while fostering a workplace culture focused on team member engagement and guest satisfaction. His commitment to listening and willingness to collaborate have earned him the trust and respect of those across the organization.
A familiar and highly regarded leader by Treasure Island team members, guests and Prairie Island Indian Community members, Heavner has helped guide the property’s continued success and growth, including its most recent capital project, a complete remodel of the hotel’s Buffalo Tower. Heavner’s leadership has been especially valuable during times of uncertainty and change, including leading the property through the unprecedented challenges of a global pandemic. During that time, he played a key role in transforming operations while upholding Treasure Island’s commitment to exceptional guest experiences and the well-being of its team members.
As general manager, Heavner will continue to lead with the same dedication and consistency that have made him a trusted presence across the property. He is committed to fostering an environment where team members feel valued, supported and empowered to succeed, while continuing to build on the strong foundation that has made Treasure Island a premier entertainment and workplace destination.
“Treasure Island has been an important part of my life and career for the past 25 years, and I am honored to serve our team members, guests and the Prairie Island Indian Community members as general manager,” Heavner said. “What makes this organization special is the people. We are truly a team united by shared values, a common mission and a commitment to excellence. I look forward to building on our strong foundation, delivering a first-class guest experience, supporting our team members and continuing to make Treasure Island the top resort destination and employer in our region.”
Heavner began his career in the casino industry at Primm Valley Resort & Casino outside of Las Vegas and later worked in a variety of finance positions at MGM Resorts before beginning his tenure at Treasure Island in 2001.
About the Prairie Island Indian Community
The Prairie Island Indian Community, a federally recognized Indian Nation, is located in southeastern Minnesota along the banks of the Mississippi River, approximately 30 miles from the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. On the web: www.prairieisland.org(opens in new tab).
About Treasure Island Resort & Casino
The Prairie Island Indian Community owns and operates Treasure Island Resort & Casino, Mount Frontenac Golf Course and Dakota Station. Located on the Mississippi River, Treasure Island is the only casino in southern Minnesota. The property features more than 1,700 slot, video poker and video keno machines, 40 table games, a poker room and a 500-seat high-stakes bingo hall. The Buffalo, Wolf and Eagle towers comprise Treasure Island’s 788-room hotel, the second largest in Minnesota. Remodeled in 2026, the Buffalo Tower is the premier hotel tower at Treasure Island, featuring top-of-the-line suites and best-in-class amenities. Additional amenities include The Lagoon indoor water park, Wave Spa, Island Xtreme Bowl, Cyber Quest arcade, Kids Quest child care, various restaurants, including fine dining at Tado Steakhouse; a 16,000-seat outdoor amphitheater, a 2,800-seat indoor event and convention center, a 135-slip marina, a 95-site RV park and a 100-passenger yacht. Treasure Island is a proud supporter of local businesses and has continually made a positive impact on the community. Since 1984, Treasure Island and the Prairie Island Indian Community together have contributed nearly $30 million to hundreds of nonprofit and civic organizations throughout the region, and in 2025, organized their charitable efforts into a corporate social responsibility platform called Island Impact.
For more information about Treasure Island Resort & Casino, visit TIcasino.com(opens in new tab).