Colorado Lottery chief receives highest industry honours

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Tom Seaver, Senior Director of the Colorado Lottery, has been selected for induction into the Lottery Industry Hall of Fame, courtesy of the Public Gaming Research Institute (PGRI).

With over 41 years of experience across five continents, Seaver joins a select group of individuals recognised for their contributions, innovation and impact on the lottery industry.

Voting takes place among other Lottery Hall of Famers, who come together to elect new members for induction based on their performance and legacy of contributions.

Two other US inductees will stand alongside Seaver as they officially complete the ceremony taking place during the next NASPL Conference and Trade Show on 24 September 2026, taking place in Orlando, Florida.

Stan Podolski, Chair of the Colorado Lottery Commission, commented: “Tom’s induction into the PGRI Hall of Fame is a testament to his visionary leadership and lifelong dedication to our industry.

“From trailblazing startup launches to advancing player health standards across North America, Tom has spent decades driving revenue growth while balancing and expanding responsible gambling practices.”

Seaver started his lottery career journey in 1985, outright becoming an innovator as the first-ever Instant Game Product Manager at the Missouri Lottery. Later on, he moved on to become the Advertising and marketing Manager for the Virginia Lottery.

Between 2001-2018, he launched and managed a global lottery consultancy, which enjoyed a trusted partner status by some of the biggest names in the lottery sector, such as Scientific Games.

Over the last eight years, Seaver has been the acting Senior Director of the Colorado Lottery, growing revenue while increasing total sales and proceeds returned to beneficiaries by 50%.

John Schulz, President of Americas and Global Instant Products at Scientific Games, who backed the nomination of Seaver, added: Tom’s leadership, expertise, and commitment to responsible growth have influenced lotteries around the world, making him exceptionally deserving of this Hall of Fame honor. 

“Scientific Games was proud to nominate Tom for this recognition and join the industry in celebrating a career that has helped shape modern lottery best practices and drive meaningful results for lottery beneficiaries.”