GRAND CASINOS: FROM PROJECTS TO PEOPLE
Shannon Porter's Grand Journey
By Tawyna Stewart, VP of Business Transformation, Grand Casinos
Five years can go by in a blink, especially when you're busy growing, learning, and making a difference at Grand Casino. For Shannon Porter, celebrating five years at Grand Casino is about looking back at a career filled with new experiences and meaningful connections. Now the Director of Talent for both Grand Casino Mille Lacs and Hinckley, Shannon is well known for her commitment to Associates and her steady, people-focused leadership.
Shannon's journey is one of deep roots and personal growth. As a proud citizen of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, her connection to the community has always been a guiding force. Through life's ups and downs, the MLB community and her mother's unwavering encouragement have been constant sources of support for her and her family. Her path has not been without obstacles, but she has overcome them by embracing her culture and seeking strength through, which includes attending ceremonies and helping her daughter go through Mildewin.
Her career journey began with her first job as a cashier at the Grand Market in 2009. Driven by a desire to serve her community, she pursued higher education, earning an Associate of Arts degree at Central Lakes College and a Bachelor of Arts in Tribal Governance and Administration from the University of Minnesota Duluth. Shannon is deeply grateful for the MLB scholarship program that supported her educational journey and strongly encourages other Band Members to remember this valuable benefit.
Before joining the casino's leadership, Shannon spent 12 years in various tribal government roles, including HR, training, Solicitor General's office, Executive Assistant to the Chief Executive and finally as a social worker and policy writer, building a foundation centered on supporting people at the Mille Lacs Band Government. She continues to serve her community today as a member of the American Indian Parent Committee in Brainerd.
In 2020, the casino created a developmental program to help Mille Lacs Band members step into director-level positions. Shannon joined in February 2021 as a Developmental Director, working closely with leadership on special projects. The role gave her unique insight into the casino's inner workings. Shannon is keen on developing her financial acumen to make even more informed choices rooted in the seven Ojibwe values she holds close.
Shannon's next chapter was the Director of Guest Experience where her knack for energizing a team shined. She constantly sought practical ways to improve the guest experience and workplace culture, making sure every team member felt heard and valued.
Today, as Director of Talent for both casino locations, Shannon is in a role that fits her perfectly. She enjoys helping others find opportunities to learn and grow.
Recently, Shannon was honored to be selected as one of a small group of Native HR professionals to attend a prestigious conference at Disney. The experience was both inspiring and affirming, and she is excited to bring back new ideas to Grand Casino. As part of this, she will be implementing two activities: an exercise focused on the importance of communication, and "The Many Faces of Fear," a session designed to change the narrative around the fears we face. These initiatives reflect her commitment to fostering a supportive and open environment.
Shannon's leadership style is supportive and balanced. She believes in living Grand Casino's values each day and knows that a strong team is built through mentorship, encouragement, and honest feedback delivered with care.
When it comes to advice, Shannon keeps it straightforward: "Love your team — really care about the people you work with. Surround yourself with those who help build your confidence, and don't shy away from new opportunities. It's important to keep pushing yourself outside your comfort zone."
Shannon's story shows that growth comes from taking on challenges and being open to learning. For her, a rewarding career is less about big moments and more about steady progress and making a difference, one step at a time.
