Area trainers from the Tunica properties have been searching for new ways to increase the gaming knowledge of its employees.  Since the state of Mississippi does not currently allow casinos to train employees in its colleges, the North Mississippi Educational Institute Chapter will enable casino employees to become certified gaming experts through a variety of training programs and seminars. 

�This chapter is a great benefit educationally to the gaming professionals in the area who are working together to make Tunica a quality vacation destination,� stated Maybelle Beasley, Executive Director of the Mississippi Hotel & Motel Association. 

The chapter�s charter was presented by Michael Anderson, Director of Allied Programs for the Educational Institute, at a luncheon held at Hollywood Casino on Thursday, July 1st.   The Chapter President, Nancy Askins, Quality Manager at Hollywood Casino, accepted the charter on behalf of the many casino Chapter representatives present. 

The North Mississippi Educational Institute Chapter will train current and prospective employees through an educational process consisting of hospitality management courses and professional certifications in the various casino departments such as food and beverage, hotel, gaming, and many others. 

�Gaming drew over 56 million visitors to the state of Mississippi in the last year,� stated Ernest Stebbins, Executive Director of the Mississippi Gaming Association. He added that the commitment and dedication of these Tunica area casinos to their employee training programs as well as their world-class accommodations, gaming, entertainment, dining, and leisure activities are why Tunica, Mississippi is now and will continue to grow as the third largest gaming destination in the United States. 

For information on establishing an Educational Institute chapter in your area, contact Tammy Redman, EI chapter coordinator, at 1-800-344-3320.