Elaine Wynn, a legend in the world of hospitality, generous patron of the arts, and devoted advocate for education, passed away on April 14, 2025, at the age of 82.
She was also a founding member of the UNLV Foundation Board of Trustees, serving as chair from 1987-89 and again from 1989-91.
“Her advocacy for UNLV and education at all levels in Las Vegas could be seen in her dedication and generosity as a founding member of the UNLV Board of Trustees and active engagement with the university for 25 years, including her tenure as board chair,” UNLV Officer in Charge Chris Heavey said. “We extend our deepest condolences and sympathy to Elaine’s family at this time.”
She helped raise millions of dollars for the university and made significant personal contributions to UNLV, including funding and inspiring others to support the Elaine Wynn Valedictorian Scholarships. She also supported education, fine arts, and performance programs and was involved in establishing the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV.
Wynn also is fondly remembered for funding UNLV's Lee Pascal Rose Garden in honor of her mother, planted with “Show Biz” roses in a nod to her gaming and hospitality roots.
The Elaine P. Wynn & Family Foundation called its leader “a force of nature — a curator of dreams in a city built on aspirations.”
Wynn, who moved here with her husband in 1967, was instrumental in shaping modern Las Vegas.Their business ventures included The Mirage, Bellagio, Wynn, and Encore properties, all of which she infused with her impeccable taste and vision. She was the largest individual shareholder of Wynn Resorts, and brought a people-first culture into the business.
Earlier this year, UNLV’s Lee Business School named her among the honorees for the Nevada Business Hall of Fame. She was set to be formally inducted at its upcoming gala.
According to Wynn Resorts Ltd., “Her many talents and special touches are indelibly imprinted on the company and still evident throughout our resorts. Elaine cared deeply about the employees of our resorts.” Those employees cherish their memories of her.
Wynn was a champion of the arts, a former trustee of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Smith Center benefactor, and a key partner in developing the future Las Vegas Art Museum. Through her family foundation, she supported educational reform and improving children’s lives.
She also served in leadership roles at the local, state, and national levels, as a supporter of Communities in Schools, and as president of the Nevada State Board of Education and co-chair of Nevada's Blue Ribbon Education Reform Task Force. Elaine Wynn Elementary School is named in her honor.
She is survived by two daughters, Kevyn and Gillian Wynn, who live in Southern California and are following their mother’s example through extensive charity work. She also has seven grandchildren.
