The Prairie Island Indian Community Tribal Council this week appointed Mike Heavner as general manager of Treasure Island Resort & Casino. Heavner has served the tribe more than 25 years at the gaming destination in Welch, Minnesota, along the banks of the Mississippi River.
Heavner began his career in the casino industry at Primm Valley Resort & Casino outside of Las Vegas and later worked in a variety of finance positions at MGM Resorts before beginning his tenure at Treasure Island. After starting as Treasure Island’s assistant controller of gaming in 2001, Heavner was promoted to director of finance in 2008, overseeing all aspects of Treasure Island’s financial operations. While serving as director of finance for the past 18 years, Heavner has held the interim general manager position on multiple occasions, including since March 2025.
Under Heavner’s leadership as interim general manager, Treasure Island is on track for one of the strongest years in its 42-year history, marked by significant growth in visitation, guest satisfaction and team member engagement.
“For more than two decades, Mike has been an integral part of Treasure Island’s success,” Prairie Island Indian Community Tribal Council President Grant Johnson said in a statement. “His longevity, unwavering commitment to our team members and guests, and the trust he has built throughout the organization reflect the qualities we value most in a leader. We are confident that his vision, dedication and focus on sustaining the prosperity of the Prairie Island Indian Community will help guide Treasure Island’s continued success for many years to come.”
A news release said Heavner is a “familiar and highly regarded leader by Treasure Island team members, guests and Prairie Island Indian Community members.” Heavner has helped guide the property’s continued growth, including its most recent capital project, a complete remodel of the hotel’s Buffalo Tower. Heavner’s leadership was especially valuable during the unprecedented challenges of a global pandemic. During that time, he played a key role in transforming operations while upholding Treasure Island’s commitment to exceptional guest experiences and the well-being of its team members.
“Treasure Island has been an important part of my life and career for the past 25 years, and I am honored to serve our team members, guests and the Prairie Island Indian Community members as general manager,” Heavner said. “What makes this organization special is the people. We are truly a team united by shared values, a common mission and a commitment to excellence. I look forward to building on our strong foundation, delivering a first-class guest experience, supporting our team members and continuing to make Treasure Island the top resort destination and employer in our region.”
