JACKSON, Mississippi (May 1, 2026) — The celebration of gaming continues with the eighth annual Hall of Fame Dinner Gala, sponsored by the Mississippi Gaming and Hospitality Association (MGHA). The June event will honor industry leaders who have played a significant role in the Mississippi gaming landscape.
Gaming industry leaders will be inducted into the Mississippi Gaming Hall of Fame on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at Hollywood Casino Gulf Coast in Bay St. Louis. The event includes the fourth annual Casino Cup Golf Tournament, taking place at The Bridges Golf Club at Hollywood. Casinos, business and individuals can participate in the tournament.
Larry Gregory, executive director of the MGHA, said the association honors leaders in the Mississippi gaming industry whose efforts have driven its success and whose lasting contributions continue to shape its future. “This prestigious award celebrates those who have profoundly influenced the evolution and advancement of the casino industry,” Gregory said. “Each nominee brings a distinct set of achievements and qualities that exemplify excellence and innovation, making them truly deserving of this distinguished honor.”
The 2026 class of honorees are:
–Industry Pioneer: Joe Billhimer, who demonstrated extraordinary leadership in the wake of Hurricane Katrina by first prioritizing the safety and support of his team members and their families, then spearheading the complex multi-year rebuild of Hard Rock Biloxi. The triumphant reopening of the Biloxi property, with its iconic guitar, became a powerful symbol of resilience for the region’s gaming industry and coastal community, restoring jobs and economic vitality. His efforts led him to be named Casino Journal’s “Executive of the Year.”
-Industry Influencer: John Ferrucci, who demonstrated that casino leadership extends far beyond financial performance. Recognized for more than 30 years of dedicated service and leadership in the state’s gaming industry before his 2025 retirement, Ferrucci most recently served as senior vice president and chief operating officer of Full House Resorts and general manager of Silver Slipper Casino Hotel. Through his deep commitment to community involvement, he elevated the property’s standing while earning prestigious honors including Citizen of the Year from the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Industry Person of the Year. He is widely respected across the Gulf Coast for his generous and consistent support of countless charities and civic organizations.
-Industry Regulatory/Government Official: Allen Godfrey, who, first as deputy director (2003) and then as executive director (2011) of the Mississippi Gaming Commission, was instrumental in guiding the industry through continued growth, as well as assisting the industry to overcome several disasters. He was involved in the state’s efforts to rebuild the coastal casinos after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and he also helped lead the industry through the 2010 BP oil spill and the major Mississippi River flood of 2011, which impacted many casinos along the Mississippi River.
Visit msgaminghalloffame.com to purchase sponsorships, a table or individual tickets to the dinner, or to participate in the golf tournament.