Luxor President Named “Philanthropist of the Year” by the Las Vegas Natural History Museum

Felix Rappaport, Luxor President and Chief Operating Officer, was recently honored as “Philanthropist of the Year” by the Las Vegas Natural History Museum (LNVHM). The recognition was given in appreciation for the donation of authentic reproductions from the Tomb & Museum of the King Tutankhamen, the attraction that closed at the Luxor earlier this year. LVNHM also acknowledged the generosity of the Luxor Resort Hotel & Casino and its parent company, MGM MIRAGE, for the charitable contribution.
“For generations to come, museum patrons will be able to see items they may not otherwise have seen,” said Rappaport. “I’m glad residents of Southern Nevada will have this as an educational resource.”
The gift included reproductions of the world-famous guardian statues, King Tut’s sarcophagus and an array of statues, vases, beds, baskets and pottery. Each item in the collection was precisely recreated and reproduced by artisans using the same tools and original 3,300-year-old methods as ancient Egyptians. The total value of the collection is approximately $3 million.
“We are overwhelmed by the generosity of MGM MIRAGE, and feel privileged to have the opportunity to honor Felix Rappaport of the Luxor for helping to make this wonderful donation to the Museum and to the community a reality,” said Marilyn Gillespie, Executive Director of the LVNHM.
Rappaport has a history of working to improve the Las Vegas community. In 2007, he was recognized by the National Network of Sector Partners as “Trailblazer of the Year” for his efforts to address hospitality workforce needs in Southern Nevada. Earlier this year, he was recognized by the Culinary Training Academy (CTA) for his leadership in the opening of a new $10 million training facility while he served as CTA’s Chairman of the Board of Trustees.
About the LVNHM
Las Vegas Natural History Museum is a private, non-profit institution dedicated to educating children and families in the natural sciences, both past and present. Through its interactive exhibits, educational programs, and the preservation of its collections, the Museum strives to instill an understanding and appreciation of the world’s wildlife, ecosystems and cultures. The Las Vegas Natural History Museum is located at 900 North Las Vegas Boulevard in downtown Las Vegas. Admission is $8 for adults; $7 for students, seniors and military; $5 for children ages 3-11. Children age 2 and under are free. Museum hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.