Lisa Manheim, Executive Director
Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research
Co-Founder, Tour de Pier
Director, LA Cancer Challenge
Lisa Manheim has had the privilege of serving as the Executive Director for the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research and Race Director for the L.A. Cancer Challenge 5K Walk/Run – the Hirshberg Foundation’s signature charity event – since 1999. In 2013, she became co-founder and producer of the award-winning Tour de Pier outdoor stationary cycling fundraiser. Manheim is a graduate of the University of California – Los Angeles, where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in History with a minor in Business.
Going strong for 27 years, the L.A. Cancer Challenge has become one of Southern California’s longest running and most beloved charity races. The Halloween-themed event brings together the pancreatic cancer community to create awareness and fundraise. As the signature event for the Hirshberg Foundation, the LA Cancer Challenge has raised more than $10 million to date.
Manheim is also the co-founder of the Tour de Pier, a unique outdoor stationary cycling fundraiser that benefits the Hirshberg Foundation and two other non-profit cancer charities. Since 2013, the Tour de Pier has raised more than $12 million dollars for cancer research, education and support services for patients and their families. Manheim works with her co-founders and a small team to guide the production, planning, communication, sponsorship and fundraising for the event.
Under Manheim’s leadership, the Hirshberg Foundation raised over $35 million for pancreatic cancer research and education and granted over $1.2 million in financial aid for patients. She continues to lead the way for the Hirshberg Foundation to carry on its mission as a leading nonprofit organization that is advancing pancreatic cancer research, funding innovative projects and programs as well as improving patient care, treatment, and survival rates.
When not fighting for a pancreatic cancer cure, Lisa is likely to be found on a bike ride or cheering on the Bruins at a UCLA game.