California’s Thunder Valley Casino Resort names Dawn Clayton CEO

California’s Thunder Valley Casino Resort has named Dawn Clayton as Chief Executive Officer. Clayton has 44 years of experience in gaming, hospitality, and entertainment, including 16 years at Thunder Valley and the past 13 overseeing the resort’s day-to-day operations.

Clayton’s career spans roles across commercial casinos, racinos, riverboat gaming, and tribal gaming operations. She joined Thunder Valley in 2010 and has since taken on responsibility for all facets of the resort’s business.

In her new role, she will continue to manage operations while coordinating with the United Auburn Indian Community (UAIC) Tribal Council on the property’s long-term direction, including upcoming development plans.

Clayton attributed the resort’s progress to the Tribe’s direction and the work of its staff.

She said: “I am deeply honored by the confidence the United Auburn Indian Community has placed in me. Everything Thunder Valley has accomplished has been made possible by the tribe’s vision and leadership, along with the extraordinary dedication of our team members.

“I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have spent the past 16 years working alongside the United Auburn Indian Community and an extraordinary team of people who have made Thunder Valley’s success possible.

“It is a privilege to lead this remarkable organization, and I look forward to building on our success as we continue creating memorable experiences for our guests, supporting our employees, and advancing the tribe’s vision for the future.”

Thunder Valley, located in Lincoln, California, is owned and operated by the UAIC. The resort draws millions of visitors each year and ranks among the largest employers in Placer County.

UAIC Tribal Council Chairman John L. Williams pointed to Clayton’s role in several of the resort’s milestones, including the expansion of its hotel, the development of The Venue entertainment center and the growth of Thunder Valley’s concert and entertainment offerings.

He also noted her leadership through the COVID-19 pandemic, a period during which she helped position the property for recovery while keeping a focus on employees, guests and the Tribal community.

William said: “Dawn’s appointment reflects the confidence the tribe has in her leadership, character and vision. She leads with humility, decisiveness and an unwavering commitment to excellence. She has earned the trust and respect of our Tribal Council, our team members, and our guests, and there is no one better suited to lead Thunder Valley into its next chapter.

“From expanding our resort and bringing world-class entertainment to Thunder Valley to successfully leading through one of the most challenging periods in our industry’s history, Dawn has consistently demonstrated the leadership that defines great organizations. Under her leadership, Thunder Valley has earned a reputation as one of the country’s most respected tribal gaming enterprises while remaining true to the values that have guided our tribe from the very beginning.”