Kansas Lottery Executive Director Stephen Durrell Inducted into Lottery Industry Hall of Fame

The Kansas Lottery is proud to announce that Executive Director Stephen Durrell has been named a member of the 2025 class of the Public Gaming Research Institute (PGRI) Lottery Industry Hall of Fame. This honor recognizes his long-standing leadership and the lasting contributions he has made to the gaming industry, both in Kansas and across the country. 

Durrell’s induction highlights more than two decades of service to the State of Kansas. His work has been marked by a commitment to innovation, responsible growth, and public trust. He began his gaming career as an Assistant Attorney General assigned to the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission and later served as General Counsel to the Kansas Lottery. In 2018, Governor Laura Kelly appointed him Executive Director of the Kansas Lottery, where he has led with a clear vision for modernization and success. 

“Stephen Durrell has brought remarkable vision, passion, and energy to the Kansas Lottery,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “His leadership has modernized our lottery system, strengthened our partnerships, and delivered record contributions to our state. His induction into the Lottery Industry Hall of Fame is well-earned.  

“Durrell’s tenure as Executive Director has resulted in record-breaking sales, increased funds for state programs, and bold initiatives that have positioned Kansas as a leader in the future of lottery and gaming. Under his leadership, the Kansas Lottery launched legal sports wagering in a matter of months following legislative approval in 2022. He also spearheaded the state’s entry into online lottery sales, launching iLottery in early 2025 and achieving one of the highest engagement rates in the country.” 

“Since becoming Executive Director of the Kansas Lottery in 2018, when the Governor honored me with this appointment, I have tried to make our Lottery as successful and secure as possible," said Durrell. “I have been able to work with some of the best staff and business partners in the lottery industry, so I share this award with them. I cannot thank everyone enough for the hard work and dedication to make the Kansas Lottery a success.” 

Throughout his career, Durrell has maintained a strong presence on national lottery committees. He previously chaired the Multi-State Lottery Association’s Security and Integrity Committee, ensuring that member lotteries met the highest standards. More recently, he has chaired the MUSL Legal Committee, providing guidance on legal and regulatory issues that affect lotteries nationwide.

 Durrell has also worked to transform the Kansas Lottery into an entertainment-driven agency, leveraging intellectual properties and high-profile partnerships to create compelling player experiences. This includes relationships with major sports franchises, movie studios, and retail partners. 

The Lottery Industry Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the growth, sustainability, and integrity of the lottery industry. Durrell now joins an esteemed group of leaders who have shaped the direction and future of lottery gaming across the globe. 

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About the Kansas Lottery 

The Kansas Lottery is dedicated to generating revenue for the state through the sale of fun, fair, and secure lottery products. Since 1987, the Lottery has provided more than $2 billion to support Kansas programs and initiatives. The agency oversees traditional lottery games, casino gaming, sports wagering, and most recently, online instant and draw games through its iLottery platform. The Kansas Lottery is committed to responsible gaming, public accountability, and delivering exciting entertainment options to players across the state.