HIGHLAND, CALIF. (October 16, 2026) — Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation (YSMN) and Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel have earned top honors once again at the 2026 Global Gaming Awards. Awards were presented during the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) held in Las Vegas overthe last week of September, a highly anticipated gathering of the gaming and hospitality industry.
For the sixth consecutive year, YSMN has been recognized as “Responsible Business of the Year,” an honor that reflects more than two decades of principled leadership, community investment and responsible stewardship. The Tribe has contributed more than $500 million in charitable giving, including $34 million over the past year alone. From advancing Tribal law education at UCLA and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, to expanding access to healthcare through SAC Health and supporting organizations such as Feeding America Riverside | San Bernardino, which helped provide more than 72,000 pounds of food to vulnerable populations, YSMN continues to make a meaningful impact across the region. Guided by its commitment to community well-being, the Tribe invests in expanding educational opportunities, strengthening economic development, enhancing resilience and preserving Indigenous cultures for future generations.
“The values passed down by our ancestors continue to guide us today and inspire the work we do for future generations,” said Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation. “We are honored to receive this recognition, grateful to our team for living our shared values every day, and proud to celebrate alongside our fellow Global Gaming Awards honorees.”
Yaamava’ Resort & Casino’s “Property of the Year" honor for the third consecutive year reaffirms its position as North America’s premier gaming destination. As the only AAA Five Diamond casino resort, Yaamava’ boasts the largest gaming floor in the West, featuring 7,500 slot machines, 150 table games, five high-limit rooms, elevated dining, a Forbes Five-Star spa and world-class live entertainment.
“We are honored to once again be recognized in two categories at the Global Gaming Awards,” said Kenji Hall, General Manager, Yaamava’ Resort & Casino. “Earning distinction in these categories year after year is especially meaningful, as it reflects the consistency of our commitment to excellence. These awards are a testament to the vision of the Tribe and the dedication of our team members, who continuously deliver exceptional gaming and hospitality experiences.”
About Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation
Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation is a federally recognized Indian tribe located on the San Manuel Indian Reservation near Highland, California. The Tribe, formerly known as the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, proudly reclaims their ancestral name—Yuhaaviatam (pronounced "yu-HAH-vee-ah-tahm")— honoring the deep-rooted heritage and enduring legacy of their people. Exercising their inherent sovereign right to self-governance, Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation is committed to providing essential services to their citizens by building infrastructure, maintaining civil services, and promoting social, economic, and cultural development.
As the Indigenous people of the San Bernardino highlands, passes, valleys, mountains, and high deserts, the Yuhaaviatam have called this region home since time immemorial and are committed to remaining a productive partner in the San Bernardino region.
For more information, visit sanmanuel-nsn.gov
About Yaamava’ Resort & Casino:
Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel is the only AAA Five-Diamond casino resort and is ranked among the best resorts in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, featuring a Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotel with luxe suites, an elevated pool deck, a Forbes Five-Star spa, and a state-of-the-art theater. Recently named the 2026 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Award for Best Casino Outside of Las Vegas, Best Casino Restaurant for its Pines Modern Steakhouse, and Best Casino Hotel as well as Best Native American Casino and Best Overall Casino Outside of Las Vegas by the Newsweek Readers' Choice Awards, Yaamava’ is located just 70 miles from downtown Los Angeles near Highland, CA. The casino has more than 7,500 slots, five high-limit gaming rooms, luxury retail shops, a wide variety of award-winning dining options, and more than a dozen bars and lounges, including a premiere sports bar, The 909 Food Hall, and the new fast-casual dining and immersive entertainment venue, bEATS. The San Manuel Entertainment Authority owns and operates Yaamava’ Resort & Casino.
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