The Engelstad Foundation, one of Las Vegas’ largest philanthropic organizations, will no longer provide financial support to UNLV, blaming a “poor and unacceptable” relationship with the university’s leadership and the dean of the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine.
The foundation has given more than $47.3 million in support of UNLV over the years. The organization was created in 2002 by the late casino operator Ralph Engelstad and his wife, Betty, to provide funding for medical research and to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. It is also a major donor to The Nevada Independent.
In an interview Wednesday, foundation CEO Kris Engelstad, who is the daughter of Ralph and Betty, said the organization will continue to honor its financial commitments to 100 Engelstad Foundation scholars as well as 25 medical school students who are receiving significant scholarships from the group.
