Rory A. Pfund, PhD, Awarded the 2024 ICRG Scientific Achievement Award

Las Vegas, NC – September 25, 2024 – The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) is pleased to announce that Dr. Rory A. Pfund has been selected for the 2024 ICRG Scientific Achievement Award. This prestigious award recognizes Dr. Pfund’s outstanding contributions to gambling studies and his significant impact on advancing research in gambling disorder and responsible gambling.

Dr. Pfund, who received his PhD in Clinical Psychology from The University of Memphis in 2020, is a Research Assistant Professor at The University of Memphis and the Clinic and Research Director at the Tennessee Institute for Gambling Education & Research. Despite being an early-stage researcher, Dr. Pfund has already authored over 50 peer-reviewed journal articles, many of which focus on the treatment and prevention of gambling disorder. His work has set new standards in the field by applying cutting-edge meta-analytic methodologies to evaluate the efficacy of psychological treatments for gambling harm.

One of Dr. Pfund’s most notable achievements is developing an open-access meta-analytic database for the larger Metapsy project. This database includes comprehensive data on psychological treatments for mental health conditions worldwide, with gambling disorder as the first and only addiction disorder currently represented. His work has not only elevated the research on gambling disorder but has also positioned it as a model for understanding other mental health and addictive disorders.

Dr. Pfund’s research has been instrumental in achieving the official recognition of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for gambling disorder as an empirically supported treatment by the American Psychological Association’s Society of Clinical Psychology. This recognition is a significant milestone, as gambling disorder had not been included on the SCP’s treatment list since its designation as an addiction in 2013.

In addition to his research, Dr. Pfund is leading a new three-year study funded by the ICRG to develop an innovative web-based intervention to prevent gambling problems among college students in Tennessee. This intervention is poised to significantly reduce gambling-related harm in the student population.

“We are honored to present Dr. Rory Pfund with the 2024 Scientific Achievement Award,” said Art Arthur Paikowsky, President at ICRG. “His groundbreaking research has not only contributed to our understanding of gambling disorder but has also laid the foundation for future advancements in the treatment and prevention of addiction. We look forward to seeing how his work will continue to shape the field.”

The award will be presented at the upcoming ICRG Conference on Gambling and Addiction in Las Vegas, Nevada, on October 6, 2024. For more information about the conference and the award, please visit https://www.icrg.org/event/25th-icrg-conference-on-gambling-and-addiction/

/by
, ,

ICRG Named Clarion Gaming’s Charity Partner

BEVERLY, MASS. — March 22, 2023—We’re excited to announce that the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) has been honored as Clarion Gaming’s Charity Partner from November 2023 to October 2024. This prestigious recognition was unveiled during the UK’s Safer Gambling Week, highlighting our organization among 24 distinguished not-for-profit entities in the safer gambling arena.

Andy Ventris, the ICE London Event Director at Clarion Gaming, praised the ICRG’s unwavering commitment to helping those affected by gambling disorders and our proactive approach to preventing gambling problems. ICRG’s dedication to conducting high-quality, independent research and providing evidence-based educational programs in gambling disorder and responsible gambling was key in securing this partnership with Clarion Gaming.

This partnership isn’t just a token of recognition—it’s a gateway to amplify our impact. We’re set to play a significant role at ICE 2024, with our President, Art Paikowski, opening the Consumer Protection Zone and Donation Ceremony. Moreover, ICRG’s presence will extend through Clarion Gaming’s influential content platforms, allowing us to broaden our reach and engage with key international stakeholders.
‍
Art expressed his heartfelt appreciation for this development. He sees it as a significant milestone that reflects our team’s dedication and tireless efforts in championing responsible gambling initiatives. This partnership marks a collaborative stride forward, enabling both ICRG and Clarion Gaming to impact the responsible gambling landscape substantially.

‍

# # # # #

‍

About ICRG

The ICRG, founded in 1996, continues to serve as the only funding source for scientific research on gambling disorder and responsible gambling in the United States. It has yielded nearly 500 articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals and has recently become a global leader. For more information, visit www.icrg.org.

Media Contact
Nicole Scott, Director of Tribal Nations Relations and Communication
ICRG
Email: nscott@icrg.org  
Phone: 978-338-6610
900 Cummings Center, suite 219-U
Beverly, MA 01915

‍

‍

/by
,

The ICRG Welcomes New Member to Board of Directors

For immediate release

BEVERLY, MASS.— Nov. 21st, 2023— The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) proudly announces the appointment of Alison Kutler, Vice President of Sustainability and Responsible Gaming at FanDuel, as the newest member of its esteemed board of directors.

Alison brings a wealth of experience and expertise in responsible gaming practices to the ICRG Board. Her appointment further strengthens the diverse representation on the 19-member board, which comprises industry leaders, public health advocates, and regulatory experts. The collective efforts of this board drive impactful initiatives that promote responsible gaming practices globally.

“We are thrilled to welcome Alison Kutler to the ICRG Board of Directors,” said Arthur Paikowsky, President at ICRG. “Her dedication and experience in fostering responsible gaming align perfectly with our organization’s vision. We look forward to leveraging Alison’s insights to advance our mission of promoting responsible gambling practices.”

The ICRG Board of Directors drives the organization’s efforts in education, outreach program development, and implementation.

# # # # #

About ICRG
The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) stands at the forefront of promoting responsible gaming practices and mitigating the adverse impacts of gambling. Through extensive research, the development of educational programs, and the provision of valuable resources, ICRG supports individuals, communities, and institutions in fostering responsible gambling practices worldwide. For more information, visit www.icrg.org.

Media Contact
Nicole Scott
Director of Tribal Nations Relations and Communications
ICRG
858-729-8579
nscott@icrg.org

/by

The US-based International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) has been confirmed as Clarion Gaming’s new Charity Partner covering the period November 2023 to October 2024.

“The US-based International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) has been confirmed as Clarion Gaming’s new Charity Partner covering the period November 2023 to October 2024.

The partnership was announced during the UK’s Safer Gambling Week (13th – 19th November) and follows applications received from a total of 24 not for profit organisations active in the safer gambling space.

ICE Event Director Andy Ventris, said: “ICRG’s stated mission is to help individuals and families affected by gambling disorder and to prevent the onset of gambling problems through high quality scientific research and evidence-based educational programming on gambling disorder and responsible gambling. It was this commitment to robust, independent research which shone through in the ICRG’s successful pitch to become our Charity Partner.”

He added: “We are committed to supporting the international industry’s safer gambling and gaming undertakings and the partnership will see ICRG have a high profile presence at ICE 2024, as well as at the co-located iGB Affiliate show, July’s iGB L!VE which takes place in Amsterdam and via Clarion Gaming’s content platforms. Our sector-leading events and media brands will provide an opportunity for ICRG to extend its reach and connect with relevant international stakeholders.”

Highlighting the significance for both parties, Art Paikowsky, President at the International Center for Responsible Gaming, expressed: “Becoming Clarion Gaming’s Charity Partner is a great honor that recognizes the 25-year history of our organization’s leadership in providing peer-reviewed evidence-based research to inform decisions to mitigate harm to players.

“It stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work of our board and staff in advancing responsible gambling initiatives. This collaboration presents a remarkable opportunity for both the International Center for Responsible Gaming and Clarion Gaming to join forces, contributing to and making a meaningful impact on the responsible gambling landscape together.”

Established in 1996 ICRG has provided independent, peer-reviewed research to help increase the understanding of gambling harms and find effective methods of mitigation. Work undertaken by the ICRG is impacting public policy and strengthening responsible gambling. Nearly $40 million has been committed to the ICRG, through contributions from the casino gaming industry, equipment manufacturers, vendors, sports wagering companies, tribal casinos and related organizations.”

Click here to view article!

/by
, ,

BALLY’S MAKES HISTORY WITH A $1.05 MILLION DONATION TO ICRG

BEVERLY, MASS—October 25, 2023 –Bally’s Corporation has set a groundbreaking record as the largest donor over two years by contributing over $1.05 million to the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG). This generous donation underscores Bally’s commitment to advancing responsible gambling initiatives and addressing health risks associated with young adult gambling.

ICRG proudly announces the allocation of two significant research grants, made possible by Bally’s support, aimed at enhancing responsible gambling strategies and gaining a deeper understanding of the health challenges faced by young adult gamblers.

  1. The Center of Excellence in Gambling Research – University of Sydney, Australia ($402,500 Grant): With Bally’s funding, this project focuses on responsible gambling programs to prevent gambling-related problems. A key objective is to boost the utilization of responsible gambling tools provided by gambling operators, ultimately promoting healthier gambling practices.
  2. Research on Young Adult Sports Wagering – University of Washington ($172,500 Grant): Young adults aged 18-26 are particularly vulnerable to gambling and other risky behaviors. The research funded by this grant will provide insights crucial for tailoring responsible gambling strategies to this age group, effectively mitigating their risks.

Bally’s additional contribution of $450,000 aims to revamp responsible gambling communications, ensuring they are more engaging and informative, similar to how addiction treatment guidelines have evolved to eliminate stigmatizing language and foster better engagement.

ICRG invites scientists to participate in this initiative, striving to develop concise guidelines for operators that will enhance their responsible gambling staff and marketing strategies. The ultimate goal is to create a more positive and effective approach to responsible gambling, encouraging greater tool utilization and fostering healthier gambling practices.

Bally’s Corporation’s outstanding commitment and generosity are significantly impacting the responsible gambling landscape, reinforcing the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure a safer and more responsible gambling environment.

‍

# # #

About ICRG

The ICRG, founded in 1996, continues to serve as the only funding source for scientific research on gambling disorder and responsible gambling in the United States, yielding nearly 500 articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Recently, it has become a global leader in the field. For more information, visit www.icrg.org.

Media Contact

Nicole Scott
ICRG
nscott@icrg.org

858-729-8579

Please find attached a photograph of Bally’s presenting a substantial contribution to the International Center for Responsible Gaming during the 24th ICRG Conference on Gambling and Addiction. This event was held in conjunction with G2E in Las Vegas on October 9th.

In the image, you can see the following individuals from left to right:

Tammi Barlow, Bally’s Vice President of Global Responsibility & Social Impact
Kim Barker, Bally’s Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer
Wanda Wilson, Bally’s Board Member
Mark Lipparelli, Chairman of ICRG
Tracy Harris, Bally’s Board Member
Arthur Paikowsky, President of ICRG
Alan M. Feldman, Chair Emeritus of ICRG
Michael Soll, Board Member of ICRG
Kathy Scanlan, Board Member of ICRG

‍

/by
,

NICOLE SCOTT JOINS ICRG AS DIRECTOR OF TRIBAL RELATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS

The International Center for Responsible Gambling (ICRG) proudly announces that Nicole Scott has joined the organization as its new Director of Tribal Nations Relations and Communications. In this role, Scott will be responsible for developing and maintaining relationships with tribal communities and organizations and overseeing all communications and outreach efforts for the ICRG.

Scott brings extensive experience in the gaming industry and a strong commitment to responsible gambling practices. Prior to joining the ICRG, she served as a consultant to tribal governments and casinos.

“We are excited to welcome Nicole to our team,” said Art Paikowsky, President of ICRG. “Her extensive experience in tribal relations and communications makes her a perfect fit for our organization. We are confident that she will be an asset in advancing our mission of funding research to mitigate potential harms to players and promoting responsible gambling practices.”

Scott expressed her excitement at joining the ICRG and working with a team of passionate professionals. “The organization has a strong commitment to responsible gambling practices,” she said, “and I look forward to working with tribal communities and organizations to promote these practices.”

Scott’s appointment comes at a time when responsible gambling practices are becoming increasingly important in the gaming industry. As more and more states in the U.S. legalize sports betting and other forms of gambling, there is a growing need for organizations like the ICRG to fund research to promote safe gambling practices.

# # # # #

‍

About ICRG

The ICRG is the global leader in scientific research on gambling disorder and responsible gaming. It is supported by gambling operators and related manufacturers and businesses. For more information, visit www.icrg.org.

Media Contact

Nicole Scott, Director of Tribal Nations Relations and Communication

ICRG

Email: nscott@icrg.org

Phone: 978-338-6610

900 Cummings Center, suite 219-U

Beverly, MA 01915

‍

/by