Honoring Leonard A. Lauder: A Visionary Leader in Breast Cancer Research

The oncology world mourns the loss of Leonard A. Lauder, a man whose vision, generosity, and unwavering dedication to science helped reshape the global fight against breast cancer.

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) announced the passing of its Honorary Chairman at the age of 92. In a heartfelt tribute, the Foundation wrote:

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Leonard Lauder, a visionary leader and beloved Honorary Chairman of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Alongside his late wife, Evelyn H. Lauder, and Dr. Larry Norton, who founded BCRF, Mr. Lauder helped build BCRF into what it is today as the world’s largest private funder of breast cancer research.
Mr. Lauder’s passion for helping others and making the world a better place will live on and continue to inspire us every day.
He was a teacher and BCRF’s biggest champion. ‘Let’s put breast cancer out of business,’ was the goal he reminded us at every turn. His extraordinary commitment to science, philanthropy, and a future without breast cancer has left a lasting legacy.
Our BCRF staff, donors, supporters, and 260 scientists across 16 countries will continue to uphold his legacy as we work to fuel the research that will allow us to realize a world without breast cancer.
Our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.”

 

Leonard Lauder – the force behind a global mission

In 1993, Leonard A. Lauder co-founded BCRF alongside his late wife, Evelyn H. Lauder, and Dr. Larry Norton. What began as a deeply personal mission—following Evelyn’s own breast cancer diagnosis  evolved into a historic movement that would transform the landscape of cancer research. Today, BCRF stands as the world’s largest private funder of breast cancer research, supporting over 260 scientists across 16 countries.

Mr. Lauder’s rallying cry, “Let’s put breast cancer out of business,” was not just a slogan, but a mission he lived by. He believed that defeating cancer required not only funding but also accountability, excellence, and vision. At BCRF, he remained a mentor and guide, engaging directly with researchers, advocating for data-driven innovation, and accelerating science toward patient benefit.

From prestige beauty to public health

Born in New York City in 1933, Mr. Lauder was the eldest son of Estée and Joseph Lauder, founders of The Estée Lauder Companies. After graduating from the Bronx High School of Science and earning degrees from the Wharton School and Columbia Business School, he joined the family business in 1958. Under his leadership as CEO and Chairman, Estée Lauder became a global leader in luxury beauty and marketing innovation.

Yet despite his remarkable business success, it was his work in public health and philanthropy that defined his enduring legacy. Alongside Evelyn, he helped launch the Pink Ribbon campaign—now a universal symbol of breast cancer awareness. Following her death in 2011, Mr. Lauder carried the mission forward, ensuring the Foundation would continue expanding its reach and scientific impact.

Beyond breast cancer

Mr. Lauder’s philanthropic reach extended beyond oncology. He co-founded the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation, accelerating research in neurodegenerative diseases, and made transformative contributions to education and health equity. Notably, he gifted $125 million to the University of Pennsylvania to establish a tuition-free nurse practitioner program dedicated to serving underserved communities.

An icon remembered

Leonard Lauder is remembered not only as a titan of business and philanthropy but as a man who believed in the power of science to save lives—and worked tirelessly to make it happen. His belief in a cancer-free future continues to inspire researchers, advocates, and patients worldwide.

He is survived by his wife, Judy Glickman Lauder, his sons William and Gary Lauder, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and his brother, Ronald S. Lauder. The family has asked that memorial contributions be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation.

As the global oncology community carries his vision forward, Leonard A. Lauder’s legacy lives on—in every breakthrough, every patient helped, and every step closer to a world without breast cancer.

Written by Nare Hovhannisyan, MD