The foundation raises money for the Christine and Helen Landgraf Memorial Fund, which gives annual research grants to UC Davis cancer center researchers. John and Helen Landgraf created the Landgraf Award to honor their daughter, Christine, who died of Hodgkin’s disease in 1971 at the age of 27.
After Christine’s death, the Landgrafs were determined to raise money for local cancer research and treatment. Started in 1973, the fund was modest in the early years and was supported mostly by close family friends. After Helen and John died, the Landgraf family, with the support of longtime donors David and Diane Logan, created the foundation to continue their work.
The list of past recipients of the Landgraf Award is extensive. This year’s award went to Andrew Birkeland, an associate professor in the UC Davis Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. His research focuses on developing novel technology to improve surgical outcomes, investigating biological drivers of head and neck cancer, and advancing liquid biopsy tests for cancer detection. Birkeland accepted the Landgraf Award at the Casino Mine Ranch fundraiser.
At the event, wine and appetizers were served. Silent and live auction items included a Bishop Creek backpacking adventure and other getaways as well as art and wine cellar dinners. There will be another Fall Gathering at the Ranch fundraiser in 2026.
