American Liver Foundation Honors Legacy and Achievements at 50th Anniversary National Gala

Celebrating Five Decades of Impact: The ALF 50th Anniversary National Legacy Gala

On October 28, 2026, the American Liver Foundation (ALF) will mark a monumental milestone in its history with the 50th Anniversary National Legacy Gala at Gotham Hall in New York City. This celebration will not only honor the tireless efforts of the organization over the past five decades but will also recognize influential contributors in the field of liver health. According to Lorraine Stiehl, CEO of ALF, the event is a tribute to those who have made significant advancements in improving liver disease treatment and patient care.

Honoring Key Contributors

The gala will feature awards for organizations and individuals who have shown exceptional commitment to the liver community. The prestigious Transplant Legacy Award will go to UPMC, recognized for its exemplary work in liver transplants, having performed over 20,000 adult and pediatric procedures. UPMC's unwavering support for ALF educational initiatives solidifies its impact on advancing liver health for future generations.

AstraZeneca will receive the Patient Impact Award for its groundbreaking therapies in the field of liver disease. The company has successfully transformed the care landscape through its innovative approaches, benefiting patients in more than 125 countries. Their partnership with ALF on the Think Liver Think Life campaign exemplifies their dedication to increasing awareness and support,

Dr. Arun Sanyal, a leading expert in liver disease, will be acknowledged with the Leadership Award. As a professor at Virginia Commonwealth University, Dr. Sanyal has significantly shaped our understanding of metabolic liver diseases and contributed numerous scientific publications to the field. His efforts in mentoring and developing new therapeutics signal a brighter future for many patients.

The Leadership Innovation Award will be presented to NOVO, a long-standing pioneer in the development of protein-based therapies. Their important research in tackling metabolic disorders associated with liver diseases showcases their commitment to innovative science.

Public Service Awards

During the gala, the ALF will also honor two key individuals with the Leadership Award for Public Service. Dr. Frank A. Anania from the FDA will be recognized for his pivotal role in overseeing clinical trials related to liver diseases. Additionally, Dr. Jay H. Hoofnagle, known for his career spanning over 50 years in liver research, will also receive this honor for his extensive contributions to the field.

The evening will showcase a heartwarming story of resilience through ALF's LIVEr Champion, Tommy Nolan, who battled a rare liver disease and ultimately received a life-saving transplant. His inspiring journey and commitment to healing represent the foundation's mission and the importance of awareness in combating liver diseases.

An Evening of Celebration

The National Legacy Gala promises a thrilling evening filled with special events, including a unique silent auction featuring exciting items such as global travel experiences, a three-course plated dinner, and a lively awards ceremony. Funds raised during the gala will support the 100 million Americans affected by liver disease and further ALF's mission of advocacy and education in the field.

Guests are encouraged to participate in the silent auction, which opens prior to the event, and take part in the gala celebration either in person or through live stream.

As the American Liver Foundation celebrates its 50th anniversary, it looks forward to many more years of transforming lives and advocating for liver health across the nation. For more information about the gala, tickets, and auction items, visit alfgala.org.

About the American Liver Foundation

Since its inception, the American Liver Foundation has been committed to enhancing the lives of individuals affected by liver disease. By offering resources, advocacy, and funding vital medical research, ALF stands as a pillar of support for over 100 million people in the U.S. living with liver diseases. The organization is dedicated to fighting liver disease and fostering a community of support among families and patients.

For further details about ALF's initiatives and events, visit www.liverfoundation.org.