Early Life and Education
Phillip Gene Ruffin was born in Potter County, Texas, on March 14, 1935. His parents were Lebanese immigrants. The family later moved to Wichita, Kansas, where his father ran a grocery store. Ruffin excelled in wrestling in high school and attended Washburn University and Wichita State University, though he did not graduate, choosing instead to focus on his business interests.
Rise to Success
Ruffin's entrepreneurial journey began with a small convenience store, expanding into a chain of 65 stores. In 1972, he pioneered self-serve gasoline stations in Kansas. He then ventured into the hotel industry, building a Marriott in Wichita in 1987. A pivotal moment was his acquisition of the New Frontier Hotel and Casino in 1998, followed by the purchase of Treasure Island Hotel and Casino from MGM Mirage in 2009 for $775 million. In 2019, he expanded his casino empire with the acquisition of Circus Circus Las Vegas for $825 million.
Key Business Strategies
Ruffin's success is rooted in identifying and seizing opportunities, often involving calculated risks and strategic acquisitions. His ability to recognize value in properties like Treasure Island and Circus Circus, and his willingness to negotiate and resolve challenges, has been key to his growth. His partnership with Donald Trump on the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas further highlights his business acumen.
Philanthropy
Phil Ruffin is involved in philanthropic work, including funding an organic food and learning initiative at the Alexander Dawson School at Rainbow Mountain. He has also supported various non-profits and civic organizations.
