Las Vegas Icon Elaine Wynn Dies at 82, Leaves Lasting Legacy in Education and Arts

April 15, 2025
Las Vegas Icon Elaine Wynn Dies at 82, Leaves Lasting Legacy in Education and Arts
  • Elaine Wynn, a billionaire hotel magnate and philanthropist, passed away at 82, celebrated for her pivotal role in developing iconic Las Vegas attractions alongside her ex-husband, Steve Wynn.

  • Her philanthropic efforts included plans for a new Las Vegas Art Museum in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and architect Francis Kere.

  • Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo and U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen praised her as a visionary who significantly enhanced Las Vegas's reputation while giving back to the community through her educational and artistic initiatives.

  • Despite facing personal challenges, including the 1993 kidnapping of her daughter, which she navigated with resilience, Wynn remained a steadfast advocate for education and the arts.

  • Wynn was deeply committed to education, having been appointed by five consecutive governors of Nevada to lead various reform efforts and serving on the State Board of Education.

  • Wynn was also a prominent art collector, making headlines in 2013 for purchasing a Francis Bacon triptych for $142.5 million, the highest price ever paid for artwork at that time.

  • As the chairwoman of Communities In Schools, she expanded the organization's reach to over 1.7 million students across 2,900 schools in 26 states, focusing on providing critical resources to at-risk children.

  • In 1995, she founded After-School All-Stars Las Vegas, which provided essential support for vulnerable youth during the hours they were unsupervised after school.

  • In tribute to her legacy, over 20 resorts across Las Vegas illuminated their marquees with photos of Wynn, reflecting the community's appreciation for her contributions.

  • Forbes reported her net worth at $1.9 billion, highlighting her philanthropic commitments and her intention to give away most of her wealth, aligning with Warren Buffet's Giving Pledge.

  • Elaine Wynn is survived by her two daughters, Kevyn and Gillian, along with seven grandchildren, with contributions in her memory directed to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

  • Wynn expressed her desire to be remembered as someone who positively impacted Las Vegas, extending her leadership beyond commercial interests into community building.

Summary based on 17 sources


Get a daily email with more US News stories

Sources




Elaine Wynn dies, after decades as gaming leader, philanthropist

More Stories