News Summary
Elaine Wynn, co-founder of Wynn Resorts and a dedicated philanthropist, has passed away at the age of 82. Her contributions to education and the arts significantly impacted Las Vegas. A major shareholder in Wynn Resorts, she played a key role in developing iconic hotels. Wynn’s philanthropic efforts included initiatives for children’s education, making her a prominent figure in her community. She is survived by her two daughters and seven grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy that will be fondly remembered.
Las Vegas – Elaine Wynn, a prominent philanthropist and co-founder of Wynn Resorts, has died at the age of 82. Her death was announced by the Elaine P. Wynn & Family Foundation, which stated she passed peacefully after a brief illness surrounded by family.
Elaine Wynn was widely recognized for her significant contributions to both education and the arts, serving in various leadership roles dedicated to these causes. She held a substantial stake in Wynn Resorts, owning approximately 9 percent of the company, making her one of the largest shareholders. Her influence extended beyond her business achievements; she played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of modern Las Vegas through the co-founding of Mirage Resorts and Wynn Resorts and her involvement in the development of iconic hotels such as The Mirage, Treasure Island, and Bellagio.
In addition to her business ventures, Wynn emphasized the importance of philanthropy in her professional life. She was deeply involved in community service initiatives and was an advocate for children’s education, founding the After-School All-Stars Las Vegas and serving as chairwoman for Communities in Schools in Nevada. Her commitment to educational reform was underscored by her appointment to Nevada’s Blue Ribbon Education Reform Task Force, as well as her roles on the State Board of Education, where she served as president multiple times.
Wynn’s impact in the arts is notable, particularly with her acquisition of Francis Bacon’s “Three Studies of Lucian Freud” for $141.4 million, marking a significant moment in the art world. Politically, she was a considerable donor, primarily supporting Democratic initiatives and candidates, including a noteworthy donation of $100,000 to President Joe Biden’s campaign. Her influence in philanthropy and public service earned her numerous tributes from Nevada politicians across party lines, highlighting her lasting impact on the state.
Raised in New York City, Wynn graduated from George Washington University in 1964. She moved to Las Vegas with her then-husband, Steve Wynn, in 1967 and quickly became integral to the local community. Elaine and Steve Wynn had a complex relationship, marked by two divorces, which shaped both their personal and professional lives.
Throughout her life, Elaine Wynn was dedicated to uplifting disadvantaged communities and improving educational resources for underprivileged children. She is survived by her two daughters, Kevyn and Gillian, along with seven grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of philanthropy and community service that will be remembered fondly in Las Vegas and beyond.
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Additional Resources
- Las Vegas Review-Journal
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Elaine Wynn
- The Nevada Independent
- Google Search: Elaine Wynn
- News 3 Las Vegas
- Google Scholar: Elaine Wynn
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