Past Award of Excellence Recipients

Amanda Burke

Dr. Amanda Burke, PhD, CTRS, CHES, dedicated her career to advancing problem gambling prevention in Ohio and beyond.
From her early days as a preventionist at Townhall II to her role as an Assistant Professor at Kent State University, Amanda was known for her boundless energy, innovation, and commitment to expanding prevention services. She integrated problem gambling education across agencies, engaged high-risk populations, and influenced systems from foster care to higher education.

Amanda served on the inaugural Ohio Problem Gambling Advisory Board, chaired committees, supported statewide surveys, and delivered impactful presentations nationally. Her ability to inspire collaboration, share effective practices, and envision new audiences made her a driving force in the field.

Heather Chapman

Dr. Heather Chapman has devoted over 25 years to advancing the field of gambling addiction.
From her first research with veterans to leading innovative treatment, training, and research initiatives, she has transformed care for individuals with gambling disorders. As creator of the Gambling Fellowship program and leader of advanced treatment trainings, she mentors future clinicians, supervises licensure candidates, and contributes groundbreaking research.

Her impact extends far beyond Ohio—facilitating treatment groups, serving on the National Council on Problem Gambling Board, and training professionals nationwide. A true pioneer, Dr. Chapman’s dedication continues to shape the field and inspire those who work alongside her.

Lori Rugle

Dr. Lori Rugle has spent over 35 years pioneering the field of gambling addiction.
From her start in Ohio to expanding efforts in Connecticut and Maryland, she has been a counselor, trainer, mentor, advocate, and researcher, always ensuring gambling was part of substance use and mental health conversations. A recipient of multiple national awards, Dr. Rugle has trained and mentored many of the field’s foremost experts, influencing programs nationwide. Her legacy shaped Ohio’s gambling service system long before it was nationally recognized, making her a truly deserving recipient of the PGNO Award of Excellence.

Lynn Burkey

Lynn Burkey has made significant contributions to the development and implementation of gambling-related programs and services in Ohio. As an early PGNO member, Lynn played a pivotal role in creating the initial membership list and consulting on the original by-laws, laying the groundwork for future growth. His expertise was instrumental in training agencies and directors to implement gambling programs, and he later expanded his efforts by training counselors and planning state workshops. Lynn also spearheaded lay-clergy certification training, helping to strengthen community support systems. 

Jenny Campbell Roux

Jenny Campbell-Roux has been a key figure in shaping the foundation and success of our organization. As a past Executive Director during a critical time of transition, she led the efforts surrounding the name change from The Ohio Council on Problem Gambling, ensuring a seamless shift that reflected the evolving mission and vision. Jenny also played a central role in crafting the initial by-laws and organizational structure, helping to establish a strong framework for the organization to grow as an active, engaged member community. Her commitment to professional development was further demonstrated through her leadership in counselor training, empowering individuals to better serve those in need. Jenny's strategic vision and dedication to the organization's growth and impact have left a lasting legacy.

Jen Clegg

Jen Clegg has been an invaluable leader and advocate in the field of gambling prevention and counseling. She played a key role in developing and delivering counselor training, ensuring that professionals were equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to support individuals affected by gambling. Jen’s efforts also extended to recruiting new counselors, expanding the network of care providers available to the community. As a liaison and advocate for prevention activities, she helped raise awareness and foster collaboration among stakeholders to enhance prevention efforts across the region. Additionally, Jennifer’s visionary work in developing a comprehensive system of services in the Cleveland area has had a profound impact, providing much-needed support and resources to individuals and families.

Reggie Robinson

Reggie Robinson’s leadership and dedication have been crucial to the survival and success of our organization during some of its most challenging times. As past President of the PGNO Board, Reggie stepped up when the organization faced a period of uncertainty, notably when there was no director and PGNO had lost essential funding. Through these difficult times, his steady guidance kept the organization together and focused on its mission. Reggie’s leadership was especially vital when Jennie Roux resigned, and he worked tirelessly to ensure continuity and stability. One of his most significant contributions was leading the effort to hire Derek Longmeier, current Executive Director, ensuring that the organization had strong leadership moving forward. Reggie’s unwavering commitment to the organization’s survival and growth has been instrumental in keeping our work alive and thriving during times of adversity.

Marilyn Rule

Marilyn Rule has made significant contributions to the growth and improvement of gambling services, particularly in the areas of quality assurance and professional development. She developed the quality survey process, a key initiative that has helped ensure the effectiveness and impact of the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline. Marilyn also took the lead in recruiting and managing test callers, helping to fine-tune services and improve outcomes for those in need. In addition to her work in quality assurance, Marilyn provided invaluable counselor training at the Zepf Center in Toledo, equipping professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to support individuals affected by gambling.