2016 Annual Report

A Letter from David Van Andel
Dear Friends,
Our story began more than 20 years ago with a bold dream:
to impact human health. Why? Because millions of people
are affected by diseases like cancer and Parkinson’s, and we
believed we could make a difference.
From our founding, early development and growth into a
global institute, our most important asset has always been
abundantly clear—people. The Institute became a reality
because a dedicated group of people decided to write a
new narrative for how science is done—to break down
barriers, build a world-class research and science education
organization, and spark the growth of a health sciences
industry in the heart of West Michigan. In the beginning, we
sought advice from experts, established partnerships and
began laying the foundation for the years to come. As time
passed, our story expanded and evolved—the product of
many individuals’ expertise, hopes and dreams.
Today, the Institute employs more than 360 people from
32 different countries, bringing with them unique skills, gifts
and abilities that benefit us as an organization and add to
our diversity. These incredible scientists, educators and
professionals could be working anywhere in the world—but
they came here and are helping lead the way into a future
filled with opportunities.
Opportunities abound because of people and their
connections to each other. Van Andel Institute scientists
collaborate internally, locally, nationally and internationally
with others who are committed to making a profound
impact on people’s health. Partnerships with organizations
such as Stand Up To Cancer and The Cure Parkinson’s Trust
are helping us accelerate the pace of discovery and begin
clinical trials for new cancer and Parkinson’s therapies.
Through the years, hope has always been the heart of the
Institute’s story. And today, there is more reason to hope
than ever before. We could not have come this far without
you—our friends and supporters. Some of you have been
touched by cancer, Parkinson’s or other diseases and have
decided to take action. Others of you give of your time,
treasure and talent to advance scientific discovery and
educational enlightenment. Together, we are moving the
Institute forward in new and surprising ways.
This year’s annual report is a celebration of the people and
the stories that illuminate who we are, what we do and
where we’re going. It is my hope that you will join us for the
next chapter in the Institute’s history and add your story to
the pages that have yet to be written.
Warmly,
David Van Andel
Chairman and CEO
“Through the years, hope
has always been the heart
of the Institute’s story.”
David Van Andel
2 | VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE ANNUAL REPORT 2016