A LEGACY OF IMPACT:


Kinga Lampert LLM ’96 on Law, Philanthropy and the Arts


From AUWCL to global leadership, Lampert reflects on her journey in breast cancer research, advocacy and cultural enrichment.


Kinga Lampert’s journey has taken her from Paris to Washington, D.C., and New York, spanning international law, philanthropy and the arts. A graduate of AUWCL’s International Legal Studies Program (ILSP) with an LLM in International Business Law, Lampert has leveraged her legal education to make a lasting impact in breast cancer research and cultural advocacy. As co-chair of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) and a board member of the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami, she has played a pivotal role in advancing lifesaving research. Additionally, her dedication to the arts through organizations such as the Princess Grace Foundation underscores her commitment to fostering cross-cultural connections. In a conversation with Interim Dean Heather Hughes, she reflects on her time at AUWCL, her philanthropic mission, and her vision for the future.


Heather Hughes (HH): How did you find your way to AUWCL?


Kinga Lampert (KL): I was studying law at Université Paris X Nanterre when AUWCL launched a dual-degree program. Having spent summers in D.C., where my father worked for the World Health Organization, I was already familiar with the city. A summer internship at Dechert, Price & Rhoads further fueled my interest in studying in the U.S. The program offered an incredible


26 THE ADVOCATE SUMMER/FALL 2025


opportunity to broaden my legal education and experience a different academic culture.


HH: As one of our early ILSP graduates, how did your time at AUWCL compare to Nanterre?


KL: The LLM program brought together students from around the world, creating a dynamic and diverse learning environment. At WCL, professors encouraged us to develop our own ideas, articulate them confidently and collaborate on projects. This was a shiſt from Nanterre, where lectures were more common and direct student-professor interaction was limited. The emphasis on teamwork and discussion at WCL had a lasting impact on me.


HH: Do you stay in touch with WCL classmates or Dechert colleagues?


KL: I remain connected with several Nanterre/AUWCL alumni, many of whom have pursued international careers — though not all in law. Unlike in the U.S., France doesn’t have a strong alumni networking culture, making it more challenging to stay connected. Aſter graduating, I joined Dechert’s New York office, and I’m still in touch with my colleagues from that time. Long hours and late nights forged friendships that have endured.


HH: What challenges and rewards have come with your work in breast cancer research philanthropy?


KL: One of the greatest challenges is engaging those who haven’t been personally affected by breast cancer. It’s a major public health crisis, with rising diagnoses and younger patients. Advocacy is key to ensuring people recognize its urgency before it affects them directly. The most


Kinga Lampert with her mentor Leonard Lauder, who also serves as co-chair of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.


rewarding part has been witnessing groundbreaking advancements in treatment and survivorship. The past decade has brought more innovations than the 30 years before, and philanthropy has played a crucial role in these breakthroughs. I was honored to receive BCRF’s inaugural Evelyn H. Lauder Spirit of Philanthropy Award, marking 12 years as co-chair of the Board.


HH: Are there any upcoming BCRF projects you’re particularly excited about?


KL: BCRF has supported cutting-edge research for 30 years, backing scientists responsible for major advances in diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. One of the most promising developments is artificial intelligence’s potential to predict cancer before it develops, allowing for preventive action. With over $1 billion raised and 260 researchers in 15 countries, BCRF continues to be a leader in lifesaving innovation.


HH: You’re also involved with the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. Can you share more about that?


KL: I’ve served on Sylvester’s Board of Governors for over a decade, and my family


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52