There are legends, and then there is Elaine P. Wynn—a visionary leader who brought Communities In Schools of Nevada (CIS) to life and changed the course of education for hundreds of thousands of students in our state.
Elaine was not only the founder—she was the heart and soul of CIS of Nevada. Her belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, no matter their background or circumstance, shaped our mission and continues to guide our work today.
As the founder of CIS of Nevada 20 years ago and the former board chair for the national Communities In Schools organization, Elaine poured herself into the work—rolling up her sleeves and standing shoulder to shoulder with staff, students, and leaders alike. She talked the talk and walked the walk, serving as a relentless advocate, a generous philanthropist, and an unwavering champion for Nevada’s students overcoming the odds.
Elaine’s influence extended far beyond CIS. She was a pioneering leader in education and the arts, a trusted advisor to policymakers, and a beacon of inspiration to generations of changemakers. Her impact is felt in every student we support, every school we serve, and every life uplifted through our mission.
Though we mourn the loss of one of the most significant education leaders of our time, we are forever inspired, uplifted, and motivated by Elaine’s legendary commitment to kids. She believed in this work deeply—and believed in us. She celebrated the CIS team in every room she entered, and her pride in our staff and mission was always apparent.
In Elaine’s honor and true to our mission, we will continue to do right by our students—never giving up and doing whatever it takes to keep them in school, on track to graduate, and set up for success in life.
Elaine P. Wynn’s light will never fade. Her legacy will live on in our work, in our hearts, and in the lives of every student we serve. We send our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to know and love her.
