In addition to providing financial support to researchers and investigators, CRI also honors scientists and community leaders with these three achievement awards. These awards are presented at our annual dinner, which usually takes place in June.

William B. Coley Award for Distinguished Research in Basic and Tumor Immunology
This award is given to one or more scientists for outstanding achievements in the field of basic immunology and cancer immunology. Awardees receive an honorary medal and $5,000 prize. The award was established in 1975 in honor of Dr. William B. Coley, a pioneer of cancer immunotherapy, whose daughter, Helen Coley Nauts, founded CRI.

That first year, the award was shared by 16 scientists considered to be the “founders of cancer immunology.” Since then, more than 68 scientists around the world have received it. Click here to see a list of William B. Coley Award recipients. 

Oliver R. Grace Award for Distinguished Service in Advancing Cancer Research
The Institute’s Oliver R. Grace Award recognizes the contributions of dedicated laypersons whose leadership has had a significant impact on cancer research. It is named in memory of Oliver R. Grace, CRI’s founding chairman, who died in 1992 and received the award posthumously the following year.

CRI founder Helen Coley Nauts was the first recipient of this award, which is a commemorative medal. Other recipients include Mary Lasker in 1977 and Dr. Lewis Thomas in 1987. Twenty-five individuals have been honored to date. Click here for a full list of Oliver R. Grace Award recipients.

Helen Coley Nauts Service Award
Established in 2007, this award honors individuals who have made significant contributions of time, energy, and service to the Cancer Research Institute. The award is named in memory of the Institute’s founder, Helen Coley Nauts, who dedicated her life to advancing immune-based therapies for cancer. Click here for a list of the Helen Coley Nauts Service Award recipients.