Kate Carlson, who oversees the responsible gaming initiatives for the Hoosier Lottery, received the Arch L. Gleason Award today for her efforts in responsible gaming.

The award, given out by the Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling, exists to recognize someone not only for their commitment to responsible gambling but also who has demonstrated the ability to successfully manage a gaming enterprise in a socially responsible manner.

"I am both humbled and honored to accept the Arch L. Gleason Award for Responsible Gaming," said Carlson. "I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling for this recognition. I would also like to thank the entire Hoosier Lottery and IGT Indiana teams for fostering a culture of responsible gaming that has blossomed into the remarkable program it is today."

Carlson, who serves as Director of Corporate Social Responsibility & Compliance for IGT Indiana, on behalf of the Hoosier Lottery, has been in the gaming industry for 18 years and has served as the Hoosier Lottery's responsible gaming advocate and innovator for the past 11 years. Under her leadership, the lottery became a member of the World Lottery Association (WLA) and received WLA's Level 3 certification. Three years later, the Hoosier Lottery received its WLA Level 4 certification, the highest level of responsible gaming certification, making it just the second U.S. state lottery to receive this recognition. The organization continues to hold Level 4 certification.

Among Carlson's other accomplishments during her tenure at the Hoosier Lottery, she led efforts to evolve the Hoosier Lottery's Player Education Program into Positive Play.

"By focusing on the more than 90% of players who don't have a problem with gambling, we directed our efforts in support of player health and prevention through the development of online tools, information and public awareness campaigns," said Carlson. "At the same time, we also make sure we have resources for that smaller percentage of players who may need treatment referral."

A board member of the Indiana Council on Problem Gambling since 2013, Carlson led the creation of the council's Responsible Gaming Committee comprised of Indiana gaming operators and other gaming commissions and launched a Treatment & Prevention Advisory Committee for player health feedback.