Ronald S. Lauder
Ronald S. Lauder is a globally respected entrepreneur, diplomat, and philanthropist. As a leading figure in international business, Jewish advocacy, and the fine arts, his career spans decades of influence—from corporate boardrooms to cultural foundations across the world.
Ronald S. Lauder is a globally respected entrepreneur, diplomat, and philanthropist. As a leading figure in international business, Jewish advocacy, and the fine arts, his career spans decades of influence—from corporate boardrooms to cultural foundations across the world.
The Life and Legacy
- Early Life & Education
Born in New York City in 1944 to Estée and Joseph Lauder, Ronald was raised with a passion for excellence and purpose. He graduated from the Bronx High School of Science, earned a business degree from the Wharton School, and continued his education in Paris and Brussels.
- Government & Diplomacy
Appointed as U.S. Ambassador to Austria in 1986 by President Ronald Reagan, Lauder played a vital role in strengthening transatlantic relations during the Cold War.
- Political Involvement
A dedicated public servant, Lauder ran for Mayor of New York City and successfully championed the term limits movement for public officials.
Leading Enterprises with Purpose
- Estée Lauder Companies
Chairman Emeritus, instrumental in expanding global operations across Europe, Asia, and beyond.
- RWL Water
Founded to provide sustainable water treatment solutions in underserved regions around the world.
- Central European Media Enterprises (CME)
Media group operating more than 15 TV stations across Eastern Europe, investing in free press and communication.
- Real Estate & Industrial Ventures
Among the first to invest in post-Wall Berlin, including land at Checkpoint Charlie and infrastructure in Estonia.
Giving That Transforms Lives
- Ronald S. Lauder Foundation
Established in 1987 to rebuild Jewish life in Central and Eastern Europe through schools, camps, and cultural initiatives.
- World Jewish Congress
As President since 2007, Lauder has advocated for Jewish rights, heritage protection, and global unity.
- Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation
Co-founder of the only charity focused solely on funding drug research for Alzheimer’s and related brain disorders.
- Other Initiatives
- Yad Vashem (Israel)
- Anti-Defamation League
- Jewish National Fund
- Tel Aviv Museum of Art
Passion for Art. Commitment to Culture.
- Neue Galerie New York
Founded in 2001, this museum celebrates German and Austrian art from the early 20th century, including works by Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele.
- The Private Collection
Over 4,000 pieces including Renaissance armor, Expressionist paintings, and rare 20th-century works.
- Restitution & Recovery
Lauder is a leading advocate in returning Nazi-looted art to rightful owners and families.
- Museum Leadership
Honorary Chairman of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA); key donor to the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s arms and armor wing.
Contact
For inquiries, speaking engagements, or collaborations, please use the form below or reach out through the affiliated foundations.
- 1048 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10028 (at 86th Street)
- foundation@ronaldlauder.art
