Our People Make the Difference

Lois J. Shapiro-Canter
President and CEO

Lois J. Shapiro-Canter is the President and Chief Executive Officer as well as the Founder of the Saratoga Foundation for Women Worldwide, Inc. Lois has been a leader in the fields of economic, environmental and civil justice for more than two decades. She has worked with government officials and community activists to implement progressive policies that improve the lives of women, children and men. Her experience as a senior legislative analyst, a municipal advisor, an assistant district attorney, educator and statewide women’s civil rights leader allows her to bring multifaceted talents to the world of global reform.

Lois has operated a law practice in the New York State Capital District area since 1987. She is a 1985 graduate of the Northeastern University School of Law and received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from the State University of New York at Albany. Lois is a former Albany County Assistant District Attorney where she served as prosecutor in the Sex Offense Unit. Lois served as the Principal Lobbyist for the National Organization For Women-New York State, Inc. for seven years and as President of this largest multi-issue women’s organization for four years. In these capacities Lois worked on all women’s issues, including: health care, domestic violence, environmental reform, child care, divorce law, child support, civil rights, welfare reform, lesbian/gay issues, affirmative action, reproductive rights, pay equity, education and discrimination.

Lois is a former New York State Assembly Speaker Legislative Analyst, Government Department Professor of Skidmore College and Assistant Corporation Counsel.

Lois has a comprehensive understanding of national, state and international issues and their impact on women and children. She has committed her life to crafting a future for girls and women where all are truly equal. As Chief Executive Officer of the Saratoga Foundation for Women Worldwide, Inc., Lois has performed extensive research to create the programs on Women & Girls Gender and Multi-Cultural Equity Education, Biotechnology, Women’s Health Care and Reproductive Rights, and Women’s Environmental Health. Lois is responsible for conducting the general operation of this women’s international human rights organization which develops strategies to cultivate progressive human rights changes around the world.