MOUNT PLEASANT, MI – The Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Council has announced the selection of Melinda Coffin as CEO of Soaring Eagle properties. Coffin is a member of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe and has extensive experience within and outside of the gaming industry. She brings knowledge of the internal operations of the gaming business, as well as the tribal community and its culture and traditions.
As the first tribal member to hold this position, Coffin began her career in gaming with the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Gaming Commission Compliance department in 1996. She went on to join the hospitality team as the Associate General Manager for the Soaring Eagle Water Park and Hotel, including Waabooz Run Golf Course and Soaring Eagle Hideaway RV Park. Most recently, she served as the Director of Guest Experience for the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort and Saganing Eagles Landing Casino & Hotel.
Coffin attended the Executive Development Program through the UNLV International Gaming Institute and the University of Nevada, Reno College of Business and Extended Studies. She is a certified Gaming Commissioner through the National Gaming Commission & Regulators.
“This is a great opportunity for Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort’s continued growth,” said Tribal Council member Gayle Ruhl. “I look forward to positive leadership with a tribal member as CEO.”
“I am extremely happy to see our first tribal member CEO,” said Tribal Council member Theresa Jackson. “Ms. Coffin will offer a great loyalty to our casino because she is a member and community stakeholder.”
Coffin is of the Bear Clan and “Little Bear Woman” is her spirit name.