Dara Cohen is senior director, strategic communications & media relations at the American Gaming Association (AGA), where she leads strategic communications and media relations efforts for the organization.

Cohen joined the AGA from MGM Resorts International, where she was the director of regional corporate communications. In this role, she managed communications for regulatory and advocacy matters, business and financial initiatives, community engagement and more, for MGM Resorts’ non-Vegas entities. Cohen also served as the spokesperson for crisis & issues management.

Previously, Cohen led internal and external communications strategy for Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland with The Cordish Companies. Prior to Live!, she managed hospitality communications for MGM Resorts with a focus on resort experiences, amenities, technology and art & culture. Over the course of her career, she has played a key role in the opening of five casinos across the United States, as well as several sportsbooks.

Cohen received her bachelor’s in Communications from Florida State University and holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Nevada, Reno. She currently resides in Washington D.C. with her husband and rescue dog.