Elaine Wynn, a pioneer in the gaming industry, passed away on April 14, aged 82. She and her former husband, Steve Wynn, co-founded Mirage Resorts and Wynn Resorts, both of which played a significant role in the development of the Las Vegas Strip.
Beyond the gaming business, Elaine Wynn was a philanthropist and involved in educational reform. She served as the president of the Nevada State Board of Education and led initiatives to support at-risk students. Her philanthropy included her role in establishing the Las Vegas Museum of Art.
Until recently, Elaine Wynn was Wynn Resorts’ largest shareholder. In November 2024, Tilman Fertitta increased his initial 6.1% stake to over 10%, surpassing Wynn. The company issued a statement on her passing, offering condolences and acknowledging her role in shaping the company and the broader Las Vegas community:
Her many talents and special touches are indelibly imprinted on the company and still evident throughout our resorts.
She was a tireless advocate for Las Vegas, for children and their education, and for the arts. We’re grateful that the enduring sense of philanthropy she instilled in our company continues to this day.
A complicated legacy: The Steve Wynn controversy
While Elaine Wynn leaves a legacy of philanthropy and advocacy, her story is also intertwined with her former husband, Steve Wynn. The former CEO of Wynn Resorts resigned in 2018 amid various allegations of sexual misconduct, which he continues to deny.
The fallout prompted investigations by gaming regulators in Nevada and Massachusetts. Multiple shareholder lawsuits followed (which Wynn Resorts has since settled), and widespread scrutiny of the company’s leadership. While denying allegations, Steve Wynn paid a $10 million fine to Nevada’s regulators. He also surrendered his Nevada gaming license. Furthermore, the DOJ brought a lawsuit against Wynn. The agency sought to compel him to register as a foreign agent under the Foreign Agents Registration Act for lobbying the Trump Administration on behalf of the People’s Republic of China. However, a federal judge dismissed the suit.
After his resignation, Steve Wynn returned the voting control of Elaine’s stock in the company, which helped him control Wynn Resorts. In the wake of the scandal, she became a vocal advocate for corporate reform. Elaine Wynn urged the company to adopt stronger governance practices and transparency measures.
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