Karen Russo

Karen Russo’s journey in the field of responsible gambling began in 2011 at the National Conference on Problem Gambling in Boston—an experience that became the catalyst for the formation of Ohio for Responsible Gambling. A true pioneer, she launched the Problem Gambling Addiction pilot with the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court and led the branding of Ohio’s Voluntary Exclusion Program, Time Out Ohio. Throughout her career, she has served as a trainer, mentor, advocate, and role model, leaving a lasting imprint on the field. Even in retirement, she continues to influence the industry as an independent assessor and consultant. Her vision, innovation, and tireless dedication make her a fitting recipient of the 2025 PGNO Award of Excellence.

Louis Weigele

With nearly 30 years of experience in the field, Louis Weigele has been a steadfast advocate for advancing problem gambling services and education. As a faculty member at Case Western Reserve University, he educates future social workers and counselors on the complexities of gambling addiction. A member of the inaugural Clinical Fellowship and Advanced Fellowship cohorts, Louis played a key role in the early support and development of the Ohio Council on Problem Gambling—now known as the Problem Gambling Network of Ohio. His leadership includes serving as both President and Treasurer of PGNO’s board. We are honored to recognize his dedication, mentorship, and enduring impact with this year’s PGNO Award of Excellence.