The 82-year-old co-founder of Wynn Resorts, Elaine Wynn, who changed and shaped the landscape of Las Vegas as we know it has died.
The Elaine P. Wynn & Family Foundation announced her passing on Tuesday (April 15), with the cause of death not publicly known.
The American businesswoman, born in New York, met her former husband Steve Wynn while on a blind date in college. Once graduated, the duo co-founded the iconic Mirage Resorts in 1976, followed by Wynn Resorts in 2000.
“She played an instrumental role in shaping the modern-day Las Vegas, from the Golden Nugget where she infused Glitter Gulch with a little luxury, to The Mirage, establishing the paradigm for everything that followed, including Bellagio, Wynn and Encore resorts,” the Elaine P. Wynn & Family Foundation shared.
The foundation states that Wynn was the largest individual shareholder of Wynn Resorts and she had significant influence as an investor.
“She understood that Las Vegas was not just a destination; it was an experience—an ever-evolving tapestry woven with threads of art, culture, and the human spirit.”
It wasn’t just business that she was passionate about, but a number of education, arts and community development initiatives too. Due to this interest, she served in various leadership roles and led numerous projects.
Elaine Wynn was also the chairman of Communities In Schools (CIS) and she worked to provide resources for children to thrive. During her time there, the organization expanded its reach to over 1.7 million students across 2900 schools in 26 states.
“As we remember Elaine Wynn, we celebrate a life lived with purpose—a life that embraced the extraordinary potential of Las Vegas, a city she truly loved,” the foundation says.
“Her legacy will echo through the vibrant streets and the stories of those she touched. In the heart and soul of Las Vegas, she will forever reign, not as Ms. Las Vegas, but as a visionary who turned possibilities into realities, inspiring all who followed in her footsteps.”
Featured Image: Credit to Alexander Migl on Wikimedia Commons
