Harrah’s Ak-Chin’s Samantha Gulick Receives Caesars Entertainment’s 2026 Trailblazer in Leadership Award

(MARICOPA, Ariz., July 30, 2026) Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino proudly announces that Samantha Gulick, Director of Marketing & Operations, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Caesars Entertainment Trailblazer in Leadership Award, one of the Caesars Entertainment’s highest honors recognizing exceptional leaders who demonstrate innovation, operational excellence, service and an unwavering commitment to developing others.

Gulick was recognized for her transformational leadership, which helped Harrah’s Ak-Chin exceed its 2025 plan. She also led a strategic reinvestment initiative that improved marketing efficiency while maintaining the property’s high guest satisfaction scores.

Beyond financial performance, Gulick has built a collaborative, people-first culture that encourages innovation, accountability and cross-department teamwork. Her leadership has earned widespread respect from employees throughout the property, who describe her as a leader who inspires creativity, empowers others and leads with integrity.

“Sam embodies everything this award represents,” said Michael Kintner, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino. “She consistently delivers exceptional business results while creating an environment where people feel empowered to contribute, grow and succeed. This recognition is well deserved.”

The Caesars Entertainment Trailblazer in Leadership Award recognizes leaders across the company’s portfolio who exemplify the organization’s core values by driving business performance, fostering an inclusive workplace culture, delivering outstanding guest service and making meaningful contributions to their communities.

About Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino: 

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, located in Maricopa, Arizona, is the state’s first and only tribal casino with an international management partner. As part of the renowned Caesars Entertainment family, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino stands out as the sole casino in Arizona to offer guests the opportunity to unlock exclusive benefits and prizes through its esteemed Caesars Rewards program, valid worldwide across the entire Caesars’ family of casinos.

The casino offers an extensive array of gaming options, including Bingo, Craps, sports betting, slot machines, video poker, video Keno, and blackjack.

In addition to its diverse gaming offerings, Harrah’s Ak-Chin provides a variety of culinary experiences with dining options that include the Copper Cactus Grill, Chop, Block & Brew, Oak & Fork, Agave’s Restaurant, Dunkin’® and the new Caesars Sportsbar.

With 529 luxurious resort and tower guestrooms, a spa and fitness center, and an outdoor swimming pool featuring a swim-up bar, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino offers an unparalleled resort experience.

Over the past three decades, Harrah’s Ak-Chin has built a reputation for excellence, earning numerous accolades along the way. It has been named a Most Admired Company by Arizona Business Magazine and BestCompaniesAZ and was recognized by Caesars Entertainment as one of the Top 1,000 Employers in the United States. The Phoenix Business Journal has consistently honored Harrah’s Ak-Chin as one of the Best Places to Work in the Valley, while the community of Maricopa has voted it Best Employer in the Crème de la Copa awards. On a national level, Tripadvisor named Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino a Travelers’ Choice Award winner. Additionally, the property received a Volunteer Service Award from the Arizona Governor’s Commission on Service and Volunteerism, highlighting its ongoing commitment to community engagement.

As the casino approaches its 32nd anniversary, Harrah’s Ak-Chin remains committed to providing a world-class entertainment experience while contributing positively to the local community.

For more information about Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, please visit www.harrahsakchin.com. Guests must be 21 or older to gamble. Remember to “Know When To Stop Before You Start.®” If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-800-NEXT STEP. ©2026, Caesars License Company, LLC.