Virginia McDowell
2026 ALI Fellow

Virginia McDowell brings to ALI a distinguished career as a senior executive and trailblazer in the U.S. gaming and entertainment industry. As president and CEO of Isle of Capri Casinos, she led initiatives that revitalized operations across 16 properties and strengthened the company’s financial position. Virginia’s leadership included strategic acquisitions, innovative brand development, and technological modernization. She held senior executive roles at Trump Entertainment Resorts and Argosy Gaming Company, where she drove profitability, operational excellence, and corporate repositioning. She also served as a non-executive director at Entain PLC, one of the world’s largest sports betting and gaming groups.

Virginia has devoted substantial energy to social impact and board service, with leadership roles at Saint Louis University, HavenHouse Saint Louis, and also co-founded Global Gaming Women. She has received numerous honors, including induction into the American Gaming Association’s Hall of Fame, and has served as a frequent keynote speaker and mentor, advancing equity and inclusion across industries.