Remembering Elaine Wynn and Her Impact on Wynn Las Vegas
Elaine Wynn, a key figure in the luxury hospitality sector, recently expressed her pride in Wynn Las Vegas, coinciding with the resort’s upcoming 20th anniversary. Tragically, her passing at the age of 82 was announced by her family foundation on Tuesday morning, just days after her heartfelt remarks.
Celebrating Commitment to Staff
On April 2, Wynn Las Vegas hosted a grand event at Allegiant Stadium, honoring 1,691 employees who have been with the hotel since Day One. During this occasion, Wynn CEO Craig Billings showed appreciation for their dedication by offering each longtime team member $10,000 in stock options.
A Lasting Legacy
Just prior to her death, Elaine Wynn shared her reflections in a statement intended for an anniversary feature, revealing her disappointment at being unable to attend the celebratory event due to a staff member’s medical emergency in Los Angeles. In her note, she acknowledged the immense pressure that accompanied the conception and opening of Wynn Las Vegas, especially following the success of Bellagio. She noted:
“The conceiving and opening of the Wynn was the most pressure-packed and demanding of all of our hotel projects. It was coming after the very successful Bellagio and hard to fathom a luxury property to improve on that. But that was always the goal each time we moved to finish and move forward.”
Addressing Challenges
With the experience that comes from launching several luxury hotels, Wynn candidly addressed the skepticism surrounding the development of a high-end resort on the site of the former Desert Inn. She recounted:
“Everybody once again was doubting whether we could pull it off one more time. The irony is it was pulled off one more time, magnificently.”
Wynn attributed this success not only to experience but also to the teamwork displayed by both established and new staff members who shared a commitment to excellence.
A Personal Connection
Throughout her career, Elaine Wynn emphasized the significance of the team at Wynn Las Vegas, stating, “It has been the consummate joy of my professional life to have been associated with this one and love every single person there from Day One, and even those who just joined yesterday. They represent our brand family name in the very best way.”
An Enduring Appreciation
In her last communications, Wynn expressed strong sentiments towards CEO Craig Billings and Chief Operating Officer Brian Gullbrants, complimenting their leadership and professionalism within the gaming industry. Her final acknowledgment came after the April 2nd party, where she joyfully remarked, “So proud of them all.”
Elaine Wynn’s legacy is not only marked by her contributions to Wynn Las Vegas but also by her steadfast commitment to the individuals who brought the vision of the resort to life. As she is remembered, her impact on the hospitality industry remains indelible.