David Z. Bean is a longtime tribal leader from the Puyallup Tribe of Indians. He has dedicated his career to advocating for tribal sovereignty and the interests of Native American communities, particularly in the realm of gaming.
Bean has served the Indian Gaming Association (IGA) in various leadership capacities, first as a regional representative for the Northwest, then as Vice Chairman. On October 31, 2025, he assumed the role of Chairman following the sudden passing of former Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr. In this position, he is focused on protecting tribal sovereignty, addressing illegal online gaming, safeguarding federal program funding, and strengthening tribal consultation.
As Chairman, Bean is committed to continuing the legacy of Chairman Stevens and uniting tribal nations under the IGA's mission. His leadership comes at a critical time for Indian gaming, with ongoing challenges from unauthorized gambling operations and federal policy changes. Bean brings decades of experience from his work with the Puyallup Tribe and his prior IGA roles, positioning him to guide the organization through these complex issues.
Career History
| Company | Role | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association (OIGA) | Chairman | – present |