Leonard A. Lauder (1933-2025) was a visionary leader in business and philanthropy, playing a critical role in furthering the Breast Cancer Research Foundation’s mission—to prevent and cure breast cancer by advancing the world’s most promising research.

With an unshakable commitment to achieving his late wife Evelyn H. Lauder’s ultimate vision of curing breast cancer, Mr. Lauder was a consummate teacher and wielded his expertise to propel the Foundation forward. He exemplified the gold standard, and BCRF grew to become the largest private funder of breast cancer research in the world.

As our Founding Scientific Director Dr. Larry Norton poignantly shared: “The term ‘force of nature’ is often overused, but in the case of Leonard Lauder it is both appropriate and profound: a force for good, whose impact is immeasurable.”

“When Evelyn and I sat at their kitchen table discussing a possible foundation to connect breast cancer laboratory and clinical research, Leonard overheard and said, ‘I’m in!’ And he never wavered from that commitment, even after Evelyn’s tragic death in 2011. As we have dedicated all of our strength to fulfill Evelyn’s vision of a world without cancer, so now we must continue to be inspired by Leonard’s passion to heal the world.”

In its first year, the organization funded eight scientists. Today, 260 scientists across 16 countries are studying every aspect of the disease and have been behind every major breakthrough in breast cancer research across prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Mr. Lauder leaves behind an indelible mark: Deaths from breast cancer have declined by 44 percent since BCRF was founded in 1993. The Foundation’s capacity to save lives was indisputably molded by Mr. Lauder’s steadfast leadership and support.

Through his inspired philanthropy, he was an agent of change, hope, and possibility and has left a lasting legacy on medicine and science, improving the lives of millions.

Yesterday, the BCRF team gathered to share fond memories of one of our biggest champions, while holding each other in comfort and grace as we recalled a life well lived. Taking the time to celebrate Mr. Lauder’s powerful life and legacy with our team reminded me of one of his greatest lessons: It’s the people that matter.

We are profoundly grateful for the gift of his friendship, his wisdom, and his extraordinary generosity of spirit. Mr. Lauder brought not only his leadership and vision to BCRF, but a deep personal compassion that touched everyone who knew him. His unwavering dedication to our mission was driven by a true desire to make the world better for others. We will honor his legacy by carrying forward the lifesaving work he cared for so deeply, always guided by the example of kindness, integrity, and grace he showed us every day.

The family asks that for those who wish, memorial donations be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation to continue the lifesaving research that will allow us to realize the world Mr. Lauder tirelessly championed: a world without breast cancer.

Miami Palm Beach Today expresses their deepest sorry to the family of Leonard A. Lauder and to Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

With Sympathy,

Donna McKay
President and CEO
Breast Cancer Research Foundation