Miriam Adelson – Biography
Early Life and Education
Miriam Adelson was born Miriam Farbstein on October 10, 1945, in Tel Aviv, then part of Mandatory Palestine. Her parents, Polish Jewish immigrants, had escaped Europe ahead of the Holocaust, settling in the young Jewish homeland. Growing up, Miriam was influenced by her parents’ resilience and the spirit of a nation building itself from the ground up. Driven by a strong academic curiosity, she attended the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, earning a degree in microbiology and genetics. She then pursued a medical degree at Tel Aviv University’s Sackler Medical School. Her scientific interests eventually focused on internal medicine, with particular attention to drug addiction and its treatment.
Medical Career and Research
After completing her medical studies, Miriam specialized in internal and emergency medicine. Her growing interest in addiction led her to move to the United States in the late 1980s for advanced research at Rockefeller University in New York. There, she studied the biological mechanisms behind drug dependency, focusing heavily on opioid addiction. Recognizing the widespread challenges of substance abuse, she became a leader in developing innovative treatment methods. Miriam established the Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Clinics for Drug Abuse Treatment and Research in both Las Vegas and Tel Aviv. These clinics have helped thousands of patients by offering comprehensive, long-term care for opioid addiction, blending medical expertise with compassionate, personalized treatment plans.
Marriage to Sheldon Adelson and Business Role
In 1991, Miriam married Sheldon Adelson, founder of Las Vegas Sands Corporation. Their marriage united two powerful forces — Miriam’s medical and philanthropic expertise and Sheldon’s business empire in global resorts and casinos. While she did not take part in daily operations, Miriam provided support and advice, particularly in philanthropic and health-related endeavors. After Sheldon’s death in 2021, Miriam became the majority shareholder of Las Vegas Sands, inheriting significant control over the company’s direction. Her position solidified her role as one of the most influential women in global business, overseeing assets that include major properties in Las Vegas, Macau, and Singapore.
Philanthropy and Public Advocacy
Philanthropy has always been central to Miriam Adelson’s life. Together with Sheldon, she contributed billions to medical research, Jewish causes, and education. They were major supporters of Birthright Israel, offering free trips to Israel for Jewish youth worldwide. Miriam also continued her commitment to addiction treatment, expanding resources for research and care through her clinics. Her work has been praised for advancing addiction science and offering hope to patients and families facing the devastating effects of opioid dependency. Her giving extends to medical research, education programs, and cultural preservation, reflecting her deep commitment to public welfare and her heritage.
Political Influence
Miriam Adelson has become an influential political figure, particularly in the United States and Israel. Alongside Sheldon, she was one of the largest financial donors to conservative political causes and Republican candidates. The Adelsons strongly supported pro-Israel policies, and Miriam became a central figure in promoting U.S.-Israel relations. In 2018, her political and philanthropic work was recognized when President Donald Trump awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. Her political advocacy continues to shape discussions on foreign policy and conservative movements within the United States and beyond.
Personal Life and Legacy
Miriam Adelson is a mother to two children from her first marriage and stepmother to Sheldon Adelson’s children. Despite the immense business and public responsibilities she has taken on, she remains deeply committed to her medical practice and addiction research. Balancing her roles in medicine, business, philanthropy, and politics, Miriam has become one of the most influential women globally. Her legacy reflects a lifetime of service — not only advancing addiction treatment but also shaping business, political discourse, and global Jewish identity. Her story is one of scientific dedication, entrepreneurial partnership, and a powerful commitment to community and faith.
Conclusion
Miriam Adelson’s life reflects a rare combination of scientific achievement, business influence, and philanthropic leadership. From her early days in Tel Aviv to her global role in healthcare, politics, and business, she has consistently worked to improve lives and support her community. Whether through addiction research, expansive philanthropy, or political engagement, her lasting impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Miriam Adelson best known for?
Miriam Adelson is best known for her work in addiction medicine, her philanthropy, and her leadership role following her husband Sheldon Adelson’s passing.
What clinics did she establish?
She founded the Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Clinics in Las Vegas and Tel Aviv, specializing in opioid addiction treatment.
What role does she have in Las Vegas Sands?
After Sheldon Adelson’s death, Miriam became the majority shareholder, overseeing the company’s global casino and resort operations.
How has she contributed to politics?
She has been a significant donor to conservative political causes in the U.S., especially supporting Republican candidates and pro-Israel policies.
What honors has she received?
In 2018, President Donald Trump awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her medical, philanthropic, and political contributions.