Millionaire Cosmetics Queen Portrayed at The Summit

Famed Millionaire Estēe Lauder portrayed

Over 70 people had the unique opportunity to sip wine and enjoy canapés and desserts from Chef Dave Marino during an "encounter" May 14 with Estēe Lauder, the famous cosmetics queen, in a first-person program done by Leslie Goddard. Here with Goddard, center, are Cindy Szymaszek, daughter of new Summit resident Lillian Keller, seen here on the right.

"Saleswoman. Cosmetics Queen. Millionaire, a historical portrayal of Estēe Lauder" was Inspired by the book Estée: A Success Story. The presentation set in 1972 introduced the woman with extraordinary sales ability and inventive marketing who turned her love for beauty into a cosmetics empire. Targeting salons and high-end stores, Lauder who was born Josephine Esther Menzer eventually launched Estée Lauder, Inc., with her Youth-Dew beauty oil. The program took attendees on an aromatic trip down memory lane as they were reminded of such signature fragrances as Estée, Azurée, and Aliage that were introduced during those the 1960s and 1970s.  

“This event was a good example of the many entertaining and informative programs presented for both Summit residents and guests from outside the community," said Marc Dennison, Executive Director of The Summit.

Leslie Goddard holds a Ph.D. from Northwestern University specializing in U.S. history and American studies, as well as a master’s degree in theatre. A former museum director and author of two books on Chicago history, she has been performing and speaking for 10 years at libraries, museums, schools and clubs around the Chicago area.

For information about future Summit programs and activities, visit www.summitofuptown.com or Facebook/SummitofUptown.