Jo Carole Lauder (née Knopf) is an American philanthropist renowned for her support of Jewish causes, the arts, medical research, and Israel advocacy. Born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware, she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) from the Tyler School of Fine Arts in Philadelphia, part of Temple University, where she studied art and was considered a promising artist, though she chose philanthropy over a full artistic career. She is married to Ronald S. Lauder, with whom she has two children, and together they are major contributors to the Jo Carole and Ronald S. Lauder Foundation, focusing on cultural, educational, and humanitarian initiatives. Lauder has been deeply involved in the arts, serving as President of the International Council of The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York for sixteen years and producing documentaries such as 'Ellsworth Kelly: Fragments' (2007) and 'Sol LeWitt: Wall Drawings' (2010). She also dedicates significant time to Mount Sinai Medical Center, where she fundraises and serves on the board of trustees. Her civic engagement extends to national recognition, including awards for her contributions to arts and culture.