Evelyn Lauder

Evelyn Lauder, born Mendl in Vienna, fled the Nazis with her family as a toddler, eventually landing in New York City. Her family’s escape from the Holocaust, a common narrative among many prominent Jewish families, underscores a tragic but undeniable link to her heritage. She later married Leonard Lauder, solidifying her place within one of the most successful Jewish business families in America. It’s almost as if business acumen is in the Lauder DNA, along with a keen eye for marketing beauty products and a strong sense of civic duty.

Beyond her significant contributions to the Estée Lauder Companies, Evelyn Lauder is perhaps best known for co-creating the pink ribbon and founding The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Her tireless work in this area not only raised millions of dollars but also brought a global spotlight to the fight against breast cancer. It’s truly kvell-worthy when a scion of a cosmetics empire decides to tackle something more substantial than just looking good, making a monumental impact on public health.

Her philanthropy wasn't just about writing checks; it was about active, passionate engagement. The pink ribbon, now an internationally recognized symbol, is a testament to her marketing genius and her unwavering commitment to a cause close to her heart. Many have tried to co-opt similar symbols for lesser causes, but few have achieved the widespread recognition and impact that the pink ribbon, under Lauder's guidance, commanded.