25th Anniversary Highlights of Hope

25
YEARS
1996 – 2021
Highlights of Hope
Contents
VAI Board Members 2
A letter from
David Van Andel 3
25 years: A timeline 4
Events 16
25 years: A timeline —
Part 2 26
VAI notable achievements 48
Building on success,
embracing the future 50

Van Andel Institute Board Members
Van Andel Institute Board of
Trustees
Van Andel Research Institute
Board of Trustees
Van Andel Education Institute
Board of Trustees
David Van Andel
Chairman & CEO, Van Andel Institute
David Van Andel
Chairman & CEO, Van Andel Institute
David Van Andel
Chairman & CEO, Van Andel Institute
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
Joan Budden
Former President & CEO, Priority Health
John Kennedy
President & CEO, Autocam Medical
Mark Meijer
Founder & President, Life EMS Ambulance
Tom R. DeMeester, M.D.
Professor & Chairman Emeritus, Department of Surgery,
Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California
James B. Fahner, M.D.
Chief of Hematology & Oncology, Helen DeVos Children’s
Hospital
Michelle Le Beau, Ph.D.
Professor of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology;
Director, University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer
Center; Director, Cancer Cytogenetics Laboratory,
University of Chicago
Max Wicha, M.D.
Distinguished Professor of Oncology; Professor,
Department of Internal Medicine; Founding Director,
University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center
James E. Bultman, Ed.D.
President Emeritus, Hope College
Susan Keipper Meell
CEO, MMS Education
Juan R. Olivarez, Ph.D.
Distinguished Scholar in Residence for Diversity,
Equity and Inclusion, Dorothy A. Johnson Center for
Philanthropy, Grand Valley State University;
President Emeritus, Aquinas College
Teresa Weatherall Neal, Ed.D. (hon)
Former Superintendent of Grand Rapids
Public Schools
2

A letter from David Van Andel
Dear friends,
As we celebrate Van Andel Institute’s 25th anniversary this year, we look back on a world that was a much different place in
1996 than it is today.
Moviegoers were flocking to “Fargo.” A sheep named Dolly was the first mammal to be successfully cloned. A gallon of gas went
for a buck and a quarter. Interest rates hovered around 8%.
During that same timespan, we’ve grown by amazing leaps and bounds here at VAI. And you, as our faithful and dedicated
supporters, have been integral to all our accomplishments leading up to our Silver Anniversary.
Looking back, it’s clear that this Institute is a product of the passion and perseverance of its founders, my parents Jay and Betty
Van Andel, and the countless others who have stood with us over the last quarter-century. VAI has been nurtured by the work
ethic that defines West Michigan and sustained by the generous hearts in this community and beyond. Our Institute, though
relatively young compared to others like it, has made such exceptional advances in a comparably short amount of time, and I
am excited to see the advances that will be made in the next 25 years.
From the outset, we insisted on excellence at every juncture, starting with the hire of our founding research director,
the late Dr. George Vande Woude. From humble beginnings, we’ve grown our research programs to cancer epigenetics,
neurodegenerative science, cell biology, structural biology, and metabolism and nutritional programming.
We’re also both humbled and proud to celebrate our esteemed educational programs, which survived and thrived even amid
challenging circumstances. In serving everyone from kindergarteners to graduate students seeking advanced degrees, we
have widened and strengthened our reach and impact on a world in need of science more than ever.
I can’t help but smile as I wonder how my parents would react if they could see what their vision has sparked. In a way, I
don’t think they’d be too surprised, because they had such stalwart faith in the people of Grand Rapids and West Michigan to
support endeavors like ours — ones that reach out to benefit others, today and for generations to come.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
My hope is that over our next 25 years, we will progress ever closer to understanding and overcoming cancer, Parkinson’s and
other illnesses that affect too many. With your continued support, I’m confident we will reach our goal.
Gratefully,
David Van Andel
Van Andel Institute Chairman & CEO
3

25 Years at Van Andel Institute: A Timeline
1996 Jay and Betty Van Andel share a vision
for a hub of scientific discovery
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
JAY & BETTY VAN ANDEL
Van Andel Institute could have been built anywhere in
the world. There were many, in fact, who pushed for it
to be located closer to established biomedical research
centers and universities in Michigan and elsewhere. But
VAI Founder Jay Van Andel knew that the right place was
Grand Rapids, Michigan — the community that gave his
family a life full of hope and happiness, and the place
that he called home.
Jay Van Andel envisioned the creation of an independent
institute that would embrace innovative approaches
to biomedical research and science education. He
wanted to develop a network of collaborations with
organizations stretching across the world, starting right
here in West Michigan.
His wife and VAI Co-Founder Betty Van Andel especially
believed in the importance of including education
opportunities within the fledgling Institute. As a former
teacher, she was integral in inspiring Van Andel Institute
for Education to help provide a foundation for the
children of future generations to follow and realize
their dreams.
Following the Van Andels’ vision, VAI was built in the
heart of downtown Grand Rapids, at the south end
of Belknap Hill. The landmark achievement fueled
the creation of a hub for scientific discovery and
advancements in human health.
4
1996

1996 David Van Andel becomes chairman and CEO
A burgeoning organization needs a
steadfast leader, and David Van Andel fit
the bill to a tee. One of four children of VAI
Co-Founders Jay and Betty Van Andel, David
Van Andel stepped into his role as chairman
and CEO with gusto. He appointed architect
James P. Gray to serve as project manager
for the construction of Phase I of the
Institute, and worked hand in hand with
Gray to scour proposals from architectural
design firms around the world.
A long-time entrepreneur in the natural and
life science products industry, Van Andel
has a propensity for embodying the hope
and innovation that drive VAI’s mission to
improve lives and enhance health.
He is an active presence in VAI’s
philanthropic endeavors alongside his
wife, Carol Van Andel, executive director
of the David and Carol Van Andel Family
Foundation. He can be found engaging
with scientists, donors and educators
at the Institute, particularly at signature
events such as the Hope on the Hill Gala and
Winterfest Celebration.
David Van Andel was born in Grand Rapids,
and he and Carol have four children.
He played a prominent role in bringing
professional hockey back to Grand Rapids
in 1996 and is co-owner and chairman
of the Grand Rapids Griffins, the city’s
American Hockey League team.
Even with his multitude of responsibilities
at VAI, Van Andel is active in numerous
business, cultural and community
organizations, including The Right Place
Program, the Hope College Board of
Trustees and The Economic Club of Grand
Rapids. He is also currently a member of
Amway’s Board of Directors and serves
on its Executive, Governance and Audit
committees.
(CLOCKWISE, STARTING AT TOP LEFT)
DAVID VAN ANDEL; JAY, DAVID & CAROL
VAN ANDEL; FORMER PRESIDENT GERALD
R. FORD & JAY & DAVID VAN ANDEL
What’s in a name?
Since our founding, Van Andel
Institute has used many variations
of our name to describe our
many evolving facets and areas
of expertise. Over time, however,
we realized that to make a clear,
lasting impact, we needed to unify
the image that we present to the
world: one organization made up of
many parts, all working together to
improve health and enhance lives.
In 2019, we adopted the practice
of utilizing Van Andel Institute to
encompass all components of our
organization. We still designate our
areas of expertise as appropriate
when helpful, but our unity under a
single name brings an added level
of strength to our image, work
and impact.
Van Andel Institute comprises the
following entities:
• Van Andel Institute for Research
(no longer Van Andel Research
Institute)
• Van Andel Institute for Education
(no longer Van Andel Education
Institute)
• Van Andel Institute Graduate
School
Please note: For legal purposes,
such as applying for grants or other
funding, our organization name
remains Van Andel Research Institute.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
1996
5

VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
DR. LUIS TOMATIS
1996 Dr. Luis Tomatis appointed first
president of VAI
Dr. Luis Tomatis was a driving force in bringing VAI to
life. Originally from Argentina, he was an energetic
advocate for Grand Rapids. Tomatis was influential in
creating and maintaining the environment that enabled
the Institute to thrive and the Medical Mile to grow up
around us.
After joining the Institute in 1996, Tomatis helped
recruit top-tier scientific talent to establish VAI’s first
Board of Scientific Advisors and appointed Nobel
Laureate Dr. Michael Brown as the board’s chairman.
After serving as VAI’s founding president from
1996 to 2001, he went on to become the director of
medical affairs for the Richard M. DeVos Family.
A cardiothoracic surgeon, Tomatis was a former chief of
cardiovascular surgery at Spectrum Health and an MSU
professor of cardiac surgery. He won numerous awards,
volunteered for organizations like the American Heart
Association and the Grand Rapids Symphony, and
arranged for invaluable medical equipment to be sent
to his homeland of Argentina.
DR. GORDON VAN WYLEN
1996 Dr. Gordon Van Wylen appointed first
director of Van Andel Institute
for Education
As one of VAI’s original trustees, Dr. Gordon Van Wylen
was instrumental in establishing the early programs
of Van Andel Institute for Education and created the
groundwork for the success of VAI. We continue to see his
vision in action through the programs we are developing
and implementing today, 25 years later.
A man of immense scientific knowledge, education,
experience and integrity, Van Wylen was an accomplished
educator and administrator. He served as dean of
engineering at University of Michigan, as Hope College
president for 15 years, and as founding trustee and
inaugural director of Van Andel Institute for Education.
Prior to his death on Nov. 5, 2020, at the age of 100,
Van Wylen generously devoted his time and talent to
numerous other organizations. He was widely regarded as
a thoughtful, visionary, kind and respectful leader.
(LEFT TO RIGHT) RALPH HAUENSTEIN, PETER COOK,
DAVID VAN ANDEL & JOHN KENNEDY
1996 The first Board of Trustees for
Van Andel Institute is established
David Van Andel
Oct. 16, 1996, to present
Peter C. Cook
Oct. 16, 1996, to April 14, 2008
Ralph W. Hauenstein
Oct. 16, 1996, to April 14, 2008
John C. Kennedy
Oct. 20, 2003, to present
Tomatis passed away on Sept. 29, 2020, leaving behind
an incredible legacy for VAI, West Michigan and the
world of biomedical research.
6
1996

1996 The first Board of Scientific Advisors for Van Andel Institute for Research is established
All five members* of this first Board were esteemed scientists who were, or later became, Nobel Laureates:
Michael S. Brown, M.D. — Chairman
Director, Jonsson Center for Molecular Genetics
The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, 1985
Joseph L. Goldstein, M.D.
Chairman, Department of Molecular Genetics
The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, 1985
(LEFT TO RIGHT) FIRST ROW
(SEATED):
DR. LUIS TOMATIS,
DAVID VAN ANDEL &
DR. MICHAEL S. BROWN
SECOND ROW (STANDING):
CASEY WONDERGEM,
DR. DANIEL NATHANS,
DR. JOSEPH L. GOLDSTEIN,
DR. RALPH BLOCKSMA,
DR. CHARLES PIPPENGER &
SARA-ANN DETERMAN
THIRD ROW (STANDING):
PETER COOK,
DR. PHILLIP SHARP,
RALPH HAUENSTEIN,
DR. RICHARD AXEL,
BILL NICHOLSON &
DR. GORDON VAN WYLEN
Phillip A. Sharp, Ph.D.
Institute Professor, Department of Biology
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, 1993
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
Richard Axel, M.D.
Co-Director, Mortimer B. Zuckerman Institute Mind Brain
Behavior Institute
Columbia University
Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, 2004
Daniel Nathans, M.D., 1928-1999
University Professor, Department of Molecular Biology and
Genetics
Johns Hopkins University
Senior Investigator, Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, 1978
*Titles listed reflect those currently,
or most recently, held.
1996
7

1997 First national symposium for educators held
The year following VAI’s founding, Van Andel Institute for
Education hosted its first national symposium for educators.
School principals and superintendents gathered to discuss
education trends and collaborate on ways to improve
classroom instruction.
In the more than two decades since, Van Andel Institute for
Education continues to offer a wealth of knowledge from
which teachers and administrators can draw. The Institute
still hosts an annual symposium for educators, Science on the
Grand, and our science programs for students and teachers
have grown by leaps and bounds. Our goal remains much
the same as it was in those early days: bolstering K–12
science education to inspire the scientists of tomorrow by
creating classrooms where curiosity, creativity and critical
thinking thrive.
1998 Groundbreaking jumpstarts growth of
VAI, Medical Mile
Plans to construct a permanent home for the Institute
leapt forward on May 20, 1998. On a plot of land at the
corner of Bostwick Avenue and Michigan Street, where a
nurse’s dormitory once stood, VAI’s founders broke
ground on the first phase of construction. VAI Founder
Jay Van Andel, Chairman and CEO David Van Andel,
Founding Research Director Dr. George Vande Woude,
Founding President Dr. Luis Tomatis and Founding Chair
of VAI’s Board of Scientific Advisors Dr. Michael S. Brown
plunged shovels into the ground in a ceremonial start to
the work (photo at right).
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
VAI’s construction spurred tremendous growth on Grand
Rapids’ Medical Mile, helping to position the city as an
epicenter of world-class health care and medical research.
Phase I construction took two years to complete; it was
followed by groundbreaking for Phase II, which added
research space, in 2007.
VAI’s facilities were designed by famed architect Rafael
Viñoly and feature plentiful windows and cascading glass
ceilings that let in abundant natural light. Phase II is LEED
Platinum-certified by the U.S. Green Building Council,
meaning both design and construction incorporate
sustainable features. These include a “green” roof and ivy
walls to reduce the “heat island” effect and a rainwater
capture system.
1998 Rafael Viñoly, selected as
architect in 1997, presents model at
Amway Grand Plaza Hotel
VIÑOLY PRESENTS PLANS & MODELS
FOR VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE
8
1997 – 1998

VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
(LEFT TO RIGHT) DR. LUIS TOMATIS, JAY VAN ANDEL,
DAVID VAN ANDEL, DR. MICHAEL S. BROWN &
DR. GEORGE VANDE WOUDE
1998
9

1999 Life Sciences Corridor and
Medical Mile created
On July 19, 1999, Gov. John Engler signed legislation to
direct $1 billion over 20 years to the Life Sciences Corridor,
a collaborative biotechnology research effort between
Michigan State University, the University of Michigan,
Van Andel Institute and Wayne State University.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
1999 Dr. George Vande Woude joins VAI
as founding research director
Dr. George Vande Woude was a titan of cancer research
when he joined the fledgling Van Andel Institute as
founding research director in 1999. With nearly three
decades of experience building successful research
programs from scratch at the National Cancer Institute,
Vande Woude immediately set to work giving shape and
substance to the young institute’s research programs.
One of Vande Woude’s most lauded breakthroughs was
the 1984 discovery of the human MET oncogene, which
is a major driver of cancer and a target for personalized
cancer therapies. Throughout his prolific career, Vande
Woude authored more than 300 published, peerreviewed
scientific papers — a reflection of his vast
contributions to science and our understanding of
cancer. Though Vande Woude passed away in 2021, his
scientific legacy will continue to power discoveries in
cancer research now and far into the future.
That same year, VAI began research in temporary lab
space at Butterworth Hospital. Thus began the creation of
Grand Rapids’ Medical Mile, a health sciences and medical
corridor that serves as a source for innovative biomedical
research, cutting-edge clinical care and economic growth
in West Michigan. The Medical Mile saw explosive growth
after VAI’s groundbreaking in 1998 and inclusion in the Life
Sciences Corridor, which now comprises the following:
2000 Grand Rapids Community College Calkins
Science Center
2003 Grand Valley State University Cook-DeVos Center for
Health Sciences
2004 Spectrum Health Fred and Lena Meijer Heart Center
2008 Spectrum Health Lemmen-Holton Cancer Pavilion
2008 Grand Rapids Women’s Health
2009 Mercy Health Hauenstein Neuroscience Center
2010 Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
Secchia Center
2011 Spectrum Health Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital
2017–present Michigan State University Grand Rapids
Innovation Park
(CLOCKWISE, STARTING AT TOP LEFT) DR. GEORGE
VANDE WOUDE; GOV. JOHN ENGLER SIGNS LIFE
SCIENCES CORRIDOR LEGISLATION IN THE PRESENCE OF
REPRESENTATIVES FROM COLLABORATING INSTITUTIONS;
AERIAL SHOT OF VAI (CENTER) IN ITS PLACE ON THE
MEDICAL MILE, 2014; AERIAL VIEW OF GRAND RAPIDS
PRIOR TO THE EXISTENCE OF VAI
10
1999

VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
1999 – 2000
11

1999 Founding investigators join VAI
2000 Van Andel Institute celebrates Grand Opening
Nearly two years after the groundbreaking for Van Andel Institute, Phase I was
complete. A grand opening ceremony was held on May 10, 2000, at the new
169,000-square-foot building to celebrate a dream turned tangible. Attendees
included former President Gerald Ford, then-Gov. John Engler and others.
Dr. Arthur S. Alberts,
Laboratory of Cell
Structure and Signal
Integration
Dr. Han-Mo Koo,
Laboratory of Cancer
Pharmacogenetics
Father and son Jay and David Van Andel shared a particularly powerful moment
as they conducted the ceremonial ribbon cutting. The founder's movements
had slowed as a result of Parkinson's disease, but David Van Andel ensured that
the ribbon cutting was not rushed and that his father had the opportunity to
experience this historic moment for the Institute he helped bring into existence.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
Dr. Brian Cao,
Laboratory of
Antibody Technology
Dr. Nick Duesbery,
Laboratory of Cancer
and Developmental
Cell Biology
Dr. Jim Resau,
Laboratory of
Analytical, Cellular and
Molecular Microscopy;
Laboratory of
Molecular Diagnostics
Dr. Craig P. Webb,
Laboratory of Tumor
Metastasis and
Angiogenesis
"I was watching a point in history that was never going to be repeated again,"
David Van Andel said. "And I was glad that I took the time to wait."
Bryn Eagleson,
Vivarium and
Transgenics Core
Dr. Bart Williams,
Laboratory of
Cell Signaling and
Carcinogenesis
12
1999 – 2000

VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
(CLOCKWISE, STARTING AT TOP): VAI FOUNDER JAY VAN ANDEL & HIS SON & VAI CHAIRMAN & CEO DAVID VAN ANDEL CUT THE RIBBON AT THE INSTITUTE’S PHASE I GRAND
OPENING, 2000; FORMER PRESIDENT GERALD R. FORD, JAY VAN ANDEL & DAVID VAN ANDEL; JAY VAN ANDEL; DAVID VAN ANDEL ADDRESSING THE CROWD AT THE GRAND
OPENING; SIGNED PHASE I BEAM PRIOR TO PLACEMENT; JAY & DAVID VAN ANDEL CELEBRATE VAI’S GRAND OPENING
2000
13

2000 Van Andel Institute for Research
holds its first scientific symposium
2001 VAI holds first Hope on the Hill Gala
This signature event celebrates those who have helped
make big strides at the Institute: donors, the community,
and the scientists and educators they support.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2001 Dr. Gordon Van Harn appointed
director of Van Andel Institute for
Education
Dr. Van Harn joined Education’s Board of Trustees in
2000 and served with distinction as director from 2001
to 2009. Under his leadership, Education expanded its
programs across new spectrums of learning, including
graduate education in cellular and molecular biology.
Van Harn passed away on April 3, 2018.
2003 VAI hosts its first cohort of
undergraduate interns
DR. GORDON VAN HARN JAY VAN ANDEL BETTY VAN ANDEL
2004 This year sees the passing of VAI Founders Jay and Betty Van Andel
Founders Jay and Betty Van Andel left behind an
impactful legacy for their family and for the city of
Grand Rapids.
Both Jay and Betty Van Andel were born in Grand
Rapids, in 1924 and 1921, respectively, and attended
Grand Rapids Christian High School, followed by Calvin
College. Jay Van Andel went on to co-found Amway
Corporation in 1959 along with childhood friend
Richard DeVos, and Betty put her passion into her
work as a teacher and her philanthropic efforts while
unwaveringly supporting her husband’s work.
Wed in 1952, the pair enjoyed more than 50 years of
marriage. Through the Jay and Betty Van Andel Foundation,
they contributed to the work of nonprofits, hospitals,
schools and other worthwhile organizations, including VAI.
Betty Van Andel passed away on Jan. 18, 2004, at age 82,
after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. Jay Van Andel
passed away later that year, on Dec. 7, 2004, at the age of
80. Their passing saddened the family and so many others,
and they have been sorely missed.
14
In 2021, VAI boasted a 30-student cohort in the Summer
Internship Program.
2004 The first external estate gift is
received at VAI
2004 VAI hosts in Grand Rapids the annual meeting of the Association of Independent
Research Institutes, of which it is a member
AIRI is an association of independent, not-for-profit biomedical and behavioral research institutes whose mission is to
enhance its members’ ability to improve human health and advance knowledge.
2000 – 2004

LIFE BY ARTIST DALE CHIHULY VAI FOR EDUCATION PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS COUTURE FOR A CURE, 2006
2005 Chihuly unveils Life sculpture at VAI
Following the passing of his wife and fellow VAI Co-Founder
Betty Van Andel in 2004, Jay Van Andel commissioned worldrenowned
artist Dale Chihuly to create a towering sculpture
in Betty’s memory. The sculpture, titled Life, features 1,100
hand-blown glass spheres composed in a form which
conjures the DNA double helix. The 14-foot, 1,200-pound
work spirals down from the ceiling of the Institute’s lobby.
It was installed and dedicated in October 2005 during the
Celebration of Hope gala, and serves as a reminder of VAI’s
mission to improve human health. Artwork © 2021 Chihuly
Studio / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York
2005 Van Andel Institute Graduate School
is founded and receives charter from the
State of Michigan to confer master’s and
Ph.D. degrees
2005 Education launches weekend
science programs
Student and teacher programming sits at the heart of
Van Andel Institute for Education’s goal to inspire the
next generation of problem-solvers. In 2005, VAI brought
students’ loved ones into the fold with the launch of Out-of-
School K–12 Science on Saturday programs, known today as
Science on Saturday.
The idea was simple: Instead of confining science education
to weekdays, Science on Saturday opened up the weekends
as a new world of possibility and familial involvement in the
learning process. Each student brought a parent or guardian
with them to the event, during which they worked together
to solve fun, meaningful science problems. This teamwork
added a powerful dimension to students’ experience with
the program; adult participants learned a thing or two
themselves and got to enjoy helping their bright, inquisitive
students solve scientific problems in a laboratory setting.
2006 Carol Van Andel, executive director
of the David and Carol Van Andel Family
Foundation and wife of VAI Chairman
and CEO David Van Andel, introduces
the inaugural Couture for a Cure fashion
presentation
The dream of Carol Van Andel and Leigh’s founder
Rebecca Wierda, Couture for a Cure showcases
extraordinary fashion while raising support for the
Institute’s research and education initiatives. The
glamorous event was first held at Leigh’s when VAI was
just a young organization, and is now held at the Institute.
Each fall, guests are treated to exclusive looks from Leigh’s
and the year’s featured designer. In 2006, the designers
were Brian Wolk and Claude Morais, of the critically
acclaimed Ruffian label. As the Institute’s stature has
grown internationally, Couture has evolved from a small
fundraiser into West Michigan’s top fashion event.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2005 Winterfest Celebration, one of VAI’s
signature events, is held for the first time
It is one of our most popular fundraising events, and
throughout the life of the event, sponsors, donors and
guests have helped raise more than $1.5 million in support
of Parkinson’s research at the Institute.
Up next: A look at VAI Events
2005 – 2006
15

Winterfest Celebration
First held in 2005, Winterfest Celebration
is an annual wintertime extravaganza
featuring culinary creations, delectable
drinks and exceptional entertainment,
all to support VAI’s groundbreaking
Parkinson’s disease research. One of
the Institute’s most popular events,
Winterfest has raised more than
$1.5 million in its history.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
(CLOCKWISE, STARTING AT TOP)
DAVID & CAROL VAN ANDEL, 2008;
DR. PATRIK BRUNDIN, 2017;
GEORGE JR. & MISSY SHARPE &
CAROL & DAVID VAN ANDEL, 2020;
WINTERFEST GUESTS IN FEB. 2020;
BRIAN VANDER ARK OF THE VERVE
PIPE, 2021; DAVID VAN ANDEL, 2017;
CHRIS & JIM RESAU & TED VECCHIO,
2008
16
2005 – 2021

Carol Van Andel Angel of Excellence Dinner & Award Presentation
The Carol Van Andel Angel of Excellence
Award is presented to individuals who
have demonstrated a strong commitment
to VAI’s mission through service and
philanthropy. First presented in 2013, this
annual award celebrates the extraordinary
efforts of philanthropists, volunteers and
advocates, whose undeniable generosity and
determination support the Institute’s ability
to improve the health and enhance the lives
of current and future generations.
The list of all award winners can be found on
page 34.
(CLOCKWISE, STARTING AT TOP) AWARDS
PRESENTATION, 2018; DAVID & CAROL
VAN ANDEL, 2017; SARAH ROLLMAN,
CHRISTINE BOELKINS, CAROL VAN ANDEL &
VICKY LUDEMA, 2013; INAUGURAL AWARDS
FROM 2013; JERRY DEBLAAY, CAROL
VAN ANDEL & KAREN DEBLAAY, 2019; CAROL
VAN ANDEL PRESENTS THE 2021 AWARDS
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2013 – 2021
17

Design & Discovery
The inaugural Design & Discovery was held in
2021 at the legendary Haworth headquarters
and showroom in Holland, Michigan. Merging
the inspiration of modernist furniture
design with the elegant shapes and colors
of contemporary fashion, Design & Discovery
seeks to excite the imagination and showcase
the power of the creative spirit while raising
philanthropic support for the Institute.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
(CLOCKWISE, STARTING AT TOP)
REBECCA WIERDA & CAROL VAN ANDEL;
MODELS ON THE RUNWAY; FERRARIS
ON-SITE AT HAWORTH; JEFF CAULEY
& LAUREN MENDELSON; INAUGURAL
DESIGN & DISCOVERY HELD AT HAWORTH
HEADQUARTERS & SHOWROOM
18
2021

VAI Golf Outing
Held annually at the Wuskowhan Players Club in West
Olive, Michigan, Van Andel Institute’s Golf Outing brings
together golfers, donors and VAI supporters of all skill
levels in support of research and education programs
at the Institute. The event has become a yearly favorite
and was first held at Wuskowhan in 2008. Each
year, guests are treated to the fun of playing
18 holes, remarks from VAI leadership and special
guest speakers, and the chance to close out the
summer season in a beautiful setting.
(CLOCKWISE, STARTING AT TOP) DAVID & CAROL
VAN ANDEL, 2008; LYNNE JARMAN-JOHNSON, 2020;
DR. RONALD GRIFKA, BRUCE COURTADE, TIMOTHY
WILLIAMS & WAYMAN BRITT, 2021; SUSAN SHAW,
MADELON HASSBERGER, CAROL VAN ANDEL & BETH
VAN PORTFLIET, 2021; PLAYERS WARM UP, 2020;
JARED VELDHEER, KYLE VAN ANDEL, DAVID VAN ANDEL
& JACK DOLES, 2020
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2008 – 2021
19

Couture for a Cure
From a spark of inspiration came Couture for
a Cure, the brainchild of Carol Van Andel and
Leigh’s founder Rebecca Wierda. This signature
fall event reminds us that science and art are
intertwined, and fashion is a beautiful way to
showcase that connection. Each year, Couture
brings people together around a popular
theme and gorgeous displays of fashion, while
sharing the Institute’s incredible work and the
inspiring people at the heart of our mission.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
(CLOCKWISE, STARTING AT TOP) A MODEL
WALKS THE RUNWAY AT INAUGURAL EVENT;
CAROL VAN ANDEL; SCOTT & REBECCA
WIERDA & CAROL & DAVID VAN ANDEL;
MODELS ON THE RUNWAY IN 2017; A FLIRTY,
ADVENTUROUS LOOK ON THE RUNWAY IN
2019; MARANDA, REBECCA WIERDA, CAROL
VAN ANDEL & CANDACE MATTHEWS, 2020
2006 –- 2021
20

Hope on the Hill Gala
Initially named the Celebration of Hope, Hope
on the Hill celebrates VAI’s mission and the
continued support of the community in our
work. This event doesn’t apologize for being
on the whimsical side, because in doing
so, it draws attention to the Institute’s farreaching
goals and long-standing resolve to
impact health and humanity. Hope on the Hill
celebrated its 20th anniversary via virtual
event in 2020.
(CLOCKWISE, STARTING AT TOP) DAVID &
CAROL VAN ANDEL CELEBRATE THE 20TH
ANNIVERSARY OF HOPE ON THE HILL, 2020;
LANDAU EUGENE MURPHY JR. PERFORMING,
2016; THE 2018 GALA TOOK ON A KENTUCKY
DERBY FEEL; LIGHT BALANCE PERFORMING,
2018; A WONDROUS GALA IN 2019; DAVID &
CAROL VAN ANDEL WITH THE FORTE
TENORS, 2015
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2001 – 2021
21

Grand Rapids Griffins Purple Community Game
Part of Van Andel Institute’s continued success
is thanks to the support of the Grand Rapids
community, including the Grand Rapids Griffins
hockey team. First held in the 2011–2012
season, the Griffins Purple Community Game
brings together hockey fans and VAI supporters
to enjoy the sport and raise awareness and
funds for the Institute’s work. In the decade
since our partnership bloomed, the Griffins
Purple Community Game has raised $273,488.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
(CLOCKWISE, STARTING AT TOP) TWO
YOUNG FANS DECKED OUT IN SUPPORT OF
VAI, 2012; GRIFFINS PLAYERS DON PURPLE
JERSEYS DURING THE ANNUAL GAME, 2019;
VAI PURPLE COMMUNITY PURPLE VAN, 2018;
SPECIAL GUEST ERIN DEAN GETS READY FOR
CEREMONIAL PUCK DROP, 2019
22
2011 – 2021

Consumers Credit Union Purple Community 5K
More than just a race, the annual
Consumers Credit Union Purple
Community 5K brings together families
from across West Michigan to support
biomedical research and science
education at Van Andel Institute. Many
who run the race do so in honor or
remembrance of loved ones who have
been touched by cancer, Parkinson’s or
other diseases. The event has raised a
lifetime total of more than $210,000 in
support of our work at VAI.
(CLOCKWISE, STARTING AT TOP)
RUNNERS CELEBRATE & SHOW THEIR
SUPPORT FOR THE CAUSE, 2016;
RUNNERS KICK OFF THE RACE, 2019;
CROWD GATHERS FOR THE PLEDGE OF
ALLEGIANCE AT THE INAUGURAL EVENT,
2015; CAROL VAN ANDEL CHATS WITH
ANOTHER 5K RUNNER, 2015; FINISHER
MEDALS, 2019; THE WHOLE FAMILY
TURNS OUT FOR THE CAUSE, 2015;
PARTICIPANTS CROSS THE FINISH LINE
TOGETHER, 2019
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2015 – 2021
23

Board of Governors
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
Members of VAI’s Board of Governors
serve as the ambassadors who share
our mission, vision and important
work with others to help gain further
support to advance the Institute’s
efforts and support the Institute
financially. A Board of Governors
Dinner has been held annually to keep
members up to date with research
and educational advancements
underway at VAI and connected with
those spearheading our efforts at the
Institute.
(CLOCKWISE, STARTING AT TOP) CAROL
VAN ANDEL, 2019; DAVID VAN ANDEL,
2017; DAVID VAN ANDEL, 1998; BOARD
OF GOVERNORS LUNCH GUESTS, 1998;
DR. PETER A. JONES, 2019; BOARD OF
GOVERNORS DINNER GUESTS, 2018;
INAUGURAL BOARD OF GOVERNORS
MEETING, 1998
24
2002 – 2021

JBoard Ambassadors
VAI’s JBoard Ambassadors are a group of
vibrant young professionals in West Michigan
who seek to stay current with and support
our work at the Institute. Members are
invited to health-science forums, luncheons
and mixers throughout the year, where
they can hear about the latest research and
educational innovations at VAI straight from
those who are making it happen.
(CLOCKWISE, STARTING AT TOP) GRILL
TO-GO AT JBOARD MEMBER MIXER, 2011;
JBOARD MEMBER MIXER, 2011; UNIQUE
SPREAD FROM GRILL TO-GO, 2011; SUMMER
MEMBER MIXER HELD AT HOUSE OF RACHEL
& MIKE MRAZ, 2021; JBOARD MEMBERS
TOURING PHASE II CONSTRUCTION, 2009;
CAROL VAN ANDEL, 2011
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2009 – 2021
25

VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
26
2006 Dr. Steven J. Triezenberg appointed dean of Van Andel
Institute Graduate School
In 2006, VAI solidified its commitment to
gathering some of the world’s best and
brightest under its roof and to training
the next generation of scientists. That
year, the Institute appointed Dr. Steven J.
Triezenberg as founding dean of Van Andel
Institute Graduate School and signed an
agreement with Michigan State University
to support the creation of MSU’s medical
school in downtown Grand Rapids. These
commitments remain as strong as ever
15 years later.
Triezenberg earned a bachelor’s in biology
and education from Calvin College in
Grand Rapids and a Ph.D. in cell and
molecular biology from the University of
Michigan. He completed his postdoctoral
research at the Carnegie Institution
of Washington before returning to the
Great Lakes State as a faculty member
in the Department of Biochemistry and
Molecular Biology at MSU — a role he held
for more than 18 years.
His efforts were central to developing the
Institute’s Ph.D. program in molecular
and cellular biology, a research-intensive,
problem-based program that immerses
students in a rigorous scientific environment
from the start. The program received
accreditation in 2013 and was reaffirmed in
2018 (see p. 33 for more information).
Triezenberg also served as the director of
Van Andel Institute for Education from 2009
to 2015, building on the efforts of former
Education directors Dr. Gordon Van Wylen
and Dr. Gordon Van Harn. In addition to
his academic leadership, Triezenberg is a
respected authority in viral biology. For
31 years, his lab explored the molecular
control systems that allow viral infections
to progress. His discoveries about herpes
simplex virus opened new possibilities for
antiviral drug development and revealed
new insights into how human cells control
gene expression.
Under Triezenberg’s remarkable leadership,
the Graduate School has enjoyed steady
growth and continues to strengthen its
reputation as a top-tier training environment
for biomedical research leaders.
2007 Groundbreaking ceremony held for Phase II
building expansion
2007 First students enter the Graduate School
2007 VAI first hosts the West Michigan Regional Undergraduate
Science Research Conference (WMRUGS)
This conference brings together students and faculty from regional colleges for two days
of learning and networking. Students present their work in a professional setting; talk
with scientists and graduate school recruiters from Midwest research universities; and
hear stimulating talks on current trends in biology, chemistry, physics and more.
(CLOCKWISE, STARTING AT TOP LEFT) DR. STEVEN J. TRIEZENBERG; ARCHITECT RAFAEL
VIÑOLY PRESENTS VAI PHASE II MODEL TO DAVID VAN ANDEL; DAVID VAN ANDEL AT
GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY OF PHASE II, 2007; VIEW OF CONSTRUCTION FROM THE
SOUTHWEST; VIEW OF CONSTRUCTION FROM DUE SOUTH
2006 – 2007

VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2007
27

2009 Phase II construction completed, adding research
and office space
On Dec. 8, 2009, Van Andel Institute celebrated the grand opening of its eight-story,
$178 million Phase II expansion. This addition to Phase I added 240,000 square feet to
the Institute and generated both economic and scientific opportunities by nearly tripling
research space. It also created the potential to support a $125 million annual research
operation.
Phase II continued the vision of architect Rafael Viñoly and provided Institute scientists,
educators and staff with beautifully designed lab and office spaces where they could
continue their groundbreaking work.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2008 “Kids’ Cancer Stories” comes to VAI
In 2008, Kelley Peel had an idea. Peel, a counselor for Reeths-Puffer Schools in Muskegon,
Michigan, was supporting five students whose mothers had been diagnosed with cancer.
To help the students process the tough emotions they were feeling, Peel asked them to
write about their experiences and accompany their words with illustrations.
The result was a book, titled by the student authors: “Kid’s Cancer Storys: The Story of
5 Kids Whose Moms Have Cancer,” a poignant description of students learning to cope
with a parent’s cancer diagnosis. The fifth- and sixth-grade students describe their own
experiences and offer personal suggestions for readers who might one day face the
same trials.
We had the honor of hosting the student authors at the Institute in 2008. VAI purchased
copies of the book for all scientists, educators and staff, which were then signed by the
students during their visit. Proceeds from all sales of the books were donated to the
Institute’s cancer research, becoming one of our first official community fundraisers and
giving rise to the creation of Van Andel Institute Purple Community in 2009.
(CLOCKWISE, STARTING AT LEFT) DAVID VAN ANDEL WITH THE AUTHORS OF “KIDS’
CANCER STORIES,” 2008; DAVID VAN ANDEL AT PHASE II GRAND OPENING, 2009;
SIGNED PHASE II BEAM IS PLACED; DAVID & CAROL VAN ANDEL ARE PRESENTED WITH A
PAINTING OF VAI AT PHASE II GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION; PHASE II RIBBON CUTTING
28
2008 – 2009

VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2009
29

2009 VAI hosts first Origins of Cancer symposium
The event brings together students, scientists and medical professionals to discuss the
latest breakthroughs in cancer research.
2009 Dr. Jeffrey Trent named the second president and director
of Van Andel Institute for Research
2009 Dr. Steven J. Triezenberg appointed Director of Education
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2009 Van Andel Institute establishes Purple Community, a
grassroots community awareness and fundraising program
Community support is crucial to Van Andel Institute’s mission, and volunteers are a
key part of our presence in Grand Rapids and the greater West Michigan area. In the
late 2000s, as volunteer numbers and events grew, VAI worked to focus the efforts of
its growing volunteer base and externally hosted events. The answer was Van Andel
Institute Purple Community.
First launched as Community for a Cure, this program took on its current name in
the early 2010s as a tribute to VAI Co-Founder Betty Van Andel, whose favorite color
was purple. It is also a nod to the ubiquitous purple ribbon often used to represent
all cancers.
VAI Purple Community event hosts dedicate their events and funds to VAI in support
of our groundbreaking research and education initiatives. Volunteers offer their
assistance in a multitude of ways: volunteering at the Institute’s signature events,
bringing new fundraising ideas to the table, organizing event materials at the Institute,
and more.
Since its inception, VAI Purple Community has hosted and supported 1,211 events
and raised nearly $4.6 million. Many are still cherished annual events, including the
Bee Brave 5K, the Grand Rapids Griffins Purple Community Game, the Duncan Lake Middle
School Cancer Walk, a variety of memorial golf outings, and many more.
2010 David and Carol Van Andel rededicate newly renovated
Crescent Park, which overlooks downtown Grand Rapids from an
eastern bluff in the heart of the city’s Medical Mile
Through nonprofit organization Friends of Crescent Park, the park was renovated and
transformed into a quiet green space that celebrates survivors of cancer and other
diseases who have found hope in the medical and research facilities that surround
the park.
The best part? All funds raised through VAI Purple Community events go directly
toward research and education efforts at VAI — right where they’ll make the biggest
impact. We are immensely grateful for the thousands of people in our community
who have made a difference in our mission through their participation in VAI
Purple Community.
(STARTING AT TOP LEFT) DAVID & CAROL VAN ANDEL (CENTER) HELP KICK OFF THE HOPE
COLLEGE PURPLE COMMUNITY SOCCER GAME, 2009; DAVID & CAROL VAN ANDEL AT
CRESCENT PARK MEMORIAL FOR FOUNDERS JAY & BETTY VAN ANDEL, 2010
30
2009 – 2010

2011 VAI forms a partnership with the
United Negro College Fund (UNCF) in
an effort to recruit and train the next
generation of researchers in the
biomedical sciences
2012 Dr. Patrik Brundin joins VAI, launches Parkinson’s research efforts
Grand Challenges in Parkinson’s Disease. In the years since,
Brundin has recruited an outstanding team of scientists
to VAI, including experts in Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s,
psychiatric disorders and rare types of dementia. Their
vast contributions are redefining what we know about
these diseases and revealing new opportunities to
develop therapies that slow or stop disease progression
— something current treatments cannot do.
2011 High School Journal Club taps into
inquiry-based learning
Inquiry-based learning is a powerful approach to education
in which students engage in hands-on problem-solving by
proposing theories and testing them. With the launch of
High School Journal Club in 2011, Van Andel Institute for
Education made its first significant foray into this interactive
style of instruction.
High School Journal Club brings together students and
teachers with VAI’s world-class scientists to engage in
scientific discourse. The program emulates the ways in
which scientists conduct their daily work: identifying a
problem, hypothesizing about potential solutions, critically
evaluating and testing evidence, and collaborating from
start to finish. Students further hone their skills by
reviewing current research from scientific journals.
Today, the Institute also harnesses the power of inquirybased
learning across its suite of student and teacher
programs. The result is students who learn to think and
act like scientists in the classroom, helping curiosity and
creativity thrive and inspiring the next generation of
scientific leaders to tackle the problems of tomorrow.
(STARTING AT TOP LEFT) STUDENTS IN HIGH SCHOOL
JOURNAL CLUB, 2011; DR. PATRIK BRUNDIN &
DAVID VAN ANDEL, 2012
When Parkinson’s disease expert and pioneering
neuroscientist Dr. Patrik Brundin joined VAI in 2012, it was
a realization of Founder Jay Van Andel’s vision: to bring
breakthrough Parkinson’s research to Grand Rapids.
Brundin had been recruited by VAI Chairman and CEO
David Van Andel the year earlier. During their first
conversations, the two established the foundations for a
bright future and discovered a shared driving inspiration —
finding a cure for a disease that had affected both of their
fathers.
Brundin hit the ground running upon his arrival at VAI,
quickly establishing our neurodegenerative research group
as well as the Institute’s flagship Parkinson’s symposium,
As part of VAI’s commitment to improving human health,
Brundin also helms the governing committee for one
of VAI’s largest collaborations, the Cure Parkinson’s–
Van Andel Institute International Linked Clinical Trials
program. Since its inception in 2012, this global effort
has launched 28 clinical trials into medications with the
potential to impede disease progression.
In 2020, Brundin became VAI’s deputy chief scientific
officer and director of its newly formed Parkinson’s
Disease Center. This new center serves as a hub for
translating groundbreaking discoveries made in VAI’s
labs into clinical trials. Together, VAI’s powerhouse
combination of lab research and clinical translation
provide boundless hope that new, more effective
treatments are not far off.
In the time since Jay Van Andel articulated his vision
for VAI, our understanding of Parkinson’s has radically
transformed. We now know that the disease starts
years, or even decades, before the appearance of
movement related symptoms. We also know that it may
have roots throughout the body, including in the gut
and immune system. These discoveries have propelled
us closer than ever to life-changing treatments — ones
that could give people more years with fewer symptoms
and a drastically improved quality of life.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2011 – 2012
31

JVA Honorees
Tom Isaacs: A grand vision
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
DR. PATRIK BRUNDIN AT GRAND CHALLENGES IN PARKINSON’S DISEASE, 2012
2012 VAI establishes the Grand Challenges in
Parkinson’s Disease symposium
When Dr. Patrik Brundin arrived at VAI in January 2012 to launch our Parkinson’s
research program, one of his first acts was to establish Grand Challenges in Parkinson’s
Disease, a symposium that brings together Parkinson’s experts to explore the latest
research. The inaugural event took place that fall and included the presentation of the
first Jay Van Andel Award for Outstanding Achievement in Parkinson’s Disease Research.
This award is given annually to a scientist or scientists who have made outstanding
contributions to Parkinson’s disease research and who have positively impacted human
health. It honors the memory of VAI Founder Jay Van Andel, who battled Parkinson’s for
a decade before his death in 2004.
Today, Grand Challenges in Parkinson’s Disease has grown into a multi-faceted event that
routinely attracts hundreds of attendees from around the world. It has covered a host
of critical issues in Parkinson’s research, including genetic factors, inflammation, clinical
trials, disease-modifying therapies and the role of non-motor symptoms.
In 2014, VAI and Cure Parkinson’s (formerly The Cure Parkinson’s Trust) added a critical
new dimension to the event with the establishment of Rallying to the Challenge, a parallel
meeting for people with Parkinson’s. Designed as a way to amplify the voices of the
Parkinson’s community, Rallying to the Challenge has become a global touchpoint for
people with Parkinson’s, advocates and care partners to connect, collaborate and
provide valuable insights to scientists.
DAVID VAN ANDEL, DR. ANDREW
SINGLETON & DR. PATRIK BRUNDIN, 2012
Jay Van Andel Award for Outstanding
Achievement in Parkinson’s Research
Honorees include:
2021 Ted Dawson, M.D.
2020 Daniela Berg, M.D., &
Ron Postuma, M.D., M.Sc.
2019 Ellen Sidransky, M.D.
2018 K. Ray Chaudhuri, M.D., FRCP, D.Sc.
2017 J. William Langston, M.D.
2016 Stanley Fahn, M.D.
2015 Robert Nussbaum, M.D., &
Maria Grazia Spillantini, Ph.D.,
FMedSci, FRS
2014 Andrew John Lees, M.D., FRCP,
FMedSci
2013 Alim-Louis Benabid, M.D., Ph.D.
2012 Andrew Singleton, Ph.D.
As co-founder of Cure Parkinson’s and a
passionate advocate for the Parkinson’s
community, Tom Isaacs recognized the
importance of ensuring that people with
Parkinson’s had a voice in research. This
fervent belief manifested into the Rallying
to the Challenge meeting, which annually
brings together scientists and people with
Parkinson’s from around the world.
Isaacs passed away in 2017. In his memory,
Cure Parkinson’s and VAI established
the Tom Isaacs Award, which recognizes
an individual who includes people with
Parkinson’s in a participatory way in their
work. Awardees include:
2020 Caroline Tanner, M.D., Ph.D.
2019 Tilo Kunath, Ph.D.
TOM ISAACS
2018 Bastiaan Bloem, M.D., Ph.D., &
Simon Stott, Ph.D.
2017 Thomas Foltynie, B.Sc., MBBS,
MRCP, Ph.D.
32
2012

“At Van Andel Institute
Graduate School, we aren't
training students to be
students — we're training
them to be the scientific
leaders of tomorrow.”
Dr. Steven J. Triezenberg
2012 VAI and area partners join forces to
create a world-class biorepository, which
was accredited by the College of American
Pathologists in 2012
Since then, the Biorepository has taken part in many highprofile
projects. For example, in 2020, VAI’s Biorepository
was awarded a $2.7 million, two-year subcontract from
the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research,
currently operated by Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc.,
on behalf of the National Cancer Institute to serve as the
biorepository for the Cancer Moonshot SM Biobank study,
a national initiative to transform cancer treatment and
prevention through accelerated research 1 .
1
The project has been funded in whole or in part with federal
funds from the National Cancer Institute of the National
Institutes of Health under contract no. HHSN261201500003I,
Task Order HHSN26100042 through Leidos Biomedical
Research, Inc. under subcontract no. 20X062Q. The content
of this publication does not necessarily reflect the views or
policies of the Department of Health and Human Services,
nor does mention of trade names, commercial products or
organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.
(LEFT TO RIGHT) DR. STEVEN J. TRIEZENBERG, DR. NATALIE NIEMI, JONATHAN KARNES & DR. JEFF KLOMP
2012 First students graduate from Van Andel Institute Graduate School
They were Jonathan Karnes, M.S., Dr. Jeff Klomp, and
Dr. Natalie Niemi. The Graduate School in August 2021
2013 VAI Graduate School receives accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission
Van Andel Institute Graduate School was accredited by
the Higher Learning Commission in 2013 and was later
reaffirmed in 2018. Accreditation provides students the
assurance that an institution of higher learning delivers
a quality educational experience — one that will be
recognized by potential employers, licensing boards or
other educational institutions.
The HLC is one of six regional institutional accreditors
in the U.S. Accreditation criteria include the school’s
had 32 alumni and an active student body of 45 Ph.D.
degree candidates.
mission and integrity; teaching and learning quality
and support; and overall institutional effectiveness,
resources and planning. Receiving this designation
solidifies the Graduate School’s ability to deliver an
impressive, impactful higher education experience to
its students.
The next reaffirmation of accreditation is scheduled
for 2024.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2012 – 2013
33

VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
CHRISTINE BOELKINS, CAROL VAN ANDEL & VICKY LUDEMA, 2013
2013 First Carol Van Andel Angel of Excellence Dinner &
Award Presentation held
This award honors individuals who have demonstrated a strong commitment to VAI’s
mission through volunteer service and philanthropic efforts.
Carol Van Andel Angel of Excellence Award Recipients
2021 The Dave & Karen Custer Family, Dr. Juan And Mary Olivarez, Otsego Public Schools,
Preusser Jewelers & Bee Brave
2019 Jeff Battershall, Jerry & Karen Deblaay, Kirk Gibson, Bea Aldrink Idema Foundation
& Sally Schaafsma
2018 Duncan Lake Middle School, Jeffery Roberts, Therese Rowerdink, Susan Stafford
& West Ottawa Purple Power
2017 Sue Jandernoa, Timothy Long, The Michelle Lunn Hope Foundation, Peter
& Joan Secchia & John Zimmerman
2013 First A Conversation Luncheon Hosted by
Carol Van Andel held
(TOP PHOTO, LEFT TO
RIGHT) DR. ERIC ACHTYES,
DR. LENA BRUNDIN &
DR. MARK EASTBURG JOIN
MARANDA &
CAROL VAN ANDEL VIA
VIRTUAL PLATFORM, 2020;
(AT LEFT) DR. CARRIE
GRAVEEL, 2013
The 2013 event featured presentations from VAI experts on the latest in breast cancer
research. Other topics over the years have examined current research into depression,
metabolism and nutrition, pediatric cancer and more.
2016 Peggy Greydanus, Debbie Kinney, Jamie Mills & Rachel Mraz
2015 Leigh’s, George Sr. & Linda Sharpe, Blair & Michelle Sharpe & George Jr.
& Missy Sharpe
2014 Lori “Maranda” Cook, Bella Fiorenzo, Mariah Otolski, Sydney Vinton & Allie Wittenbach
2013 Christine Boelkins & Victoria Ludema
2014 VAI and Spectrum Health’s Fred and Lena Meijer Heart
Center establish partnership to stimulate regenerative medicine
for heart disease
The joint effort was made possible by a significant donation from the Richard and Helen
DeVos Foundation.
34
2013 – 2014

2014 Renowned scientist Dr. Peter A. Jones leads Van Andel Institute for Research into the future
A winning strategy
When renowned scientist Dr. Peter A.
Jones first visited VAI, he knew he was
in the right place to build something
incredible. All the pieces were there:
state-of-the-art facilities, an outstanding
team of scientists and staff and
exceptional support from the Van Andel
Family and the West Michigan community.
It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Jones accepted the challenge: It was time
to put VAI on the map.
DR. PETER A. JONES, 2020
Originally from South Africa, Jones had spent
the previous 37 years in Los Angeles, where
he most recently led University of Southern
California’s Norris Comprehensive Cancer
Center. Over the years, he had spearheaded
groundbreaking research into epigenetics,
a set of processes that regulate our genetic
instruction manual and that are integral to
health and disease. His discoveries helped
bring the fledgling field to the forefront,
where it continues to give rise to new cancer
therapies.
Upon arriving at VAI as chief scientific
officer, Jones immediately set to work
building on the strong foundations laid
by the Institute’s Founding Research
Director and legendary cancer scientist
Dr. George Vande Woude. Jones
envisioned VAI as the global destination
for cutting-edge research, powered in
part by vast collaborations designed to
translate lab discoveries into life-changing
patient care.
Over the years, Jones expanded VAI’s
research and recruited both outstanding
early career scientists and distinguished,
established investigators. He also made
impact a priority — VAI is now known
the world over for its groundbreaking
research into epigenetics and its
efforts to translate these discoveries
into innovative patient care through
the Van Andel Institute–Stand Up
To Cancer Epigenetics Dream Team.
This collaborative endeavor was
established in 2014 and leverages the
collective brainpower and resources
of leading cancer scientists, physicians
and organizations to move promising
epigenetic treatments for cancer into
clinical trials.
In 2020, Jones kicked off an ambitious
new phase of strategic growth that has
led to the hire of six new faculty from
renowned institutions in the U.S. and
abroad. This next stage in the Institute’s
growth has set our trajectory for years
to come, further establishing VAI as a
global destination for innovative research
and a catalyst for paradigm-shifting
collaborations.
To attain the growth, reputation and
impact VAI’s founders envisioned, we
needed a plan. Since his arrival at VAI,
Dr. Peter A. Jones has led development of
four iterative strategic plans, each designed
to grow our scientific capacity and, with it,
our impact on human health.
Research 1.0 Establish gravitational pull
to Grand Rapids by recruiting top scientific
talent
Research 2.0 Support and develop our
existing scientists while recruiting early
career scientists into our areas of strength
Research 3.0 Build successful programs in
our areas of scientific strength
Research 4.0 Elevate VAI’s reputation as
a hub for groundbreaking research and
catalytic collaboration
DR. PETER A. JONES &
DAVID VAN ANDEL, 2014
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2014
35

VAI–STAND UP TO CANCER EPIGENETICS DREAM TEAM, 2014; CURE PARKINSON’S GROUP VISITS VAI, 2018
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2014 VAI partners with Stand Up To Cancer and Cure Parkinson’s to catalyze collaboration against cancer and Parkinson’s
Teamwork and impact have always been at the heart of VAI’s mission. This ethos is
reflected in our two largest collaborations: the Van Andel Institute–Stand Up To Cancer
Epigenetics Dream Team and the Cure Parkinson’s–Van Andel Institute International
Linked Clinical Trials initiative.
Established in 2014, the VAI–SU2C Epigenetics Dream Team brings together leading
cancer scientists, physicians and organizations to collaborate against cancer. Their goal?
To move promising combination therapies for cancer into clinical trials — a vital step on
the road to the clinic. The team is co-led by VAI Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Peter A. Jones
and Director’s Scholar Dr. Stephen B. Baylin, both world leaders in cancer epigenetics
research. So far, the team has launched 13 clinical trials that have enrolled more than
500 patients.
Cancers and repurposed drugs studied through clinical collaborations
Following a formal agreement in 2014, VAI has partnered with Cure Parkinson’s (formerly
The Cure Parkinson’s Trust) to support clinical trials of medications developed to treat
other diseases that also show potential for slowing or stopping Parkinson’s disease
progression — something not possible with current therapies. VAI’s Deputy Chief
Scientific Officer Dr. Patrik Brundin chairs iLCT’s Scientific Committee, a group of globally
leading experts that annually evaluates medications that may have promise for impeding
Parkinson’s and prioritizes them for clinical investigation. As of September 2021, iLCT has
launched 28 clinical trials. In all, more than 3,500 people have participated.
We are deeply grateful to all those who have participated in these vital trials. Their
contributions to our collaborative efforts are bringing us closer to breakthrough therapies
that improve the quality of life for millions.
Cancers (VAI–SU2C Epigenetics
Dream Team)
• Metastatic colorectal cancer
• Acute myeloid leukemia
• High-risk myelodysplastic
syndrome (MDS), chronic
myelomonocytic leukemia
(CMML), and acute myeloid
leukemia (AML)
• Low-risk myelodysplastic
syndrome (MDS), chronic
myelomonocytic leukemia
(CMML) and clonal cytopenia
of undetermined significance
(CCUS)
• High-risk myelodysplastic
syndrome (MDS), chronic
myelomonocytic leukemia
(CMML) and low blast count AML
• High-risk myelodysplastic
syndrome (MDS) or chronic
myelomonocytic leukemia
(CMML)
• Non-small cell lung cancer
• Bladder (urothelial) cancer
• Liver, pancreatic, bile duct,
and gallbladder cancers
• Triple negative or hormone
resistant/HER2-negative
metastatic breast cancer
Repurposed drugs (iLCT),
including:
• Ambroxol
• Deferiprone
• EPI-589
• Exenatide
• Liraglutide
• Lixisenatide
• UDCA
36
2014

2014 First Rallying to the Challenge held in
conjunction with the Grand Challenges in
Parkinson’s Disease symposium
This event is a meeting designed for and by people with
Parkinson’s, advocates and care partners that delves into
how the Parkinson’s community can impact and accelerate
research.
2014 External Scientific Advisory Board
meets for the first time
2015 Van Andel Institute Purple Community
hosts its first annual Purple Community 5K
2015 Winterfest celebrates $1 million
fundraising milestone in conjunction
with its 10-year anniversary
2015 NexGen Inquiry®, VAI for Education’s
web-based science education platform,
launches
2015 Drs. Peter A. Jones, Stephen B. Baylin
and Stefan Jovinge play key roles in
discoveries that were hailed as notable
advances of 2015 by Nature Medicine
2015 David Van Andel and Dr. George
Vande Woude honored with the Geoffrey
Beene Builders of Science Award from
Research!America
This award recognizes distinguished research advocates
who are trailblazers in advancing medical progress to
improve the health and economic security of the nation.
2015 A historic day — His Majesty King Willem-Alexander and Her Majesty
Queen Máxima of the Netherlands visit VAI
On June 2, 2015, VAI celebrated a momentous occasion in
its history: welcoming His Majesty King Willem-Alexander
and Her Majesty Queen Máxima of the Netherlands to the
Institute. While at VAI, the King and Queen met with
David Van Andel, chairman and CEO of the Institute,
and Carol Van Andel, executive director of the David and
Carol Van Andel Family Foundation. The group toured
a neurodegenerative disease lab and attended a lettersigning
ceremony that aimed to foster collaboration in
Parkinson’s research.
2014 – 2015
DAVID & CAROL VAN ANDEL WITH HIS MAJESTY KING WILLEM-ALEXANDER & HER MAJESTY
QUEEN MÁXIMA OF THE NETHERLANDS
The Royal Couple’s stop in Grand Rapids, Michigan, was
part of a visit celebrating the strong ties between the
Netherlands and the U.S., with a focus on health care
and agriculture. In recognition of their visit and that of
the Life Sciences and Health Economic Mission of the
Netherlands to the U.S., VAI, Spectrum Health and the
Kingdom of the Netherlands hosted a joint symposium
to strengthen ties between the Dutch and American
research and medical communities.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
37

2015 Renowned cancer scientist Dr. Stephen B. Baylin joins
VAI as director’s scholar
To make the biggest breakthroughs, VAI brings together the brightest minds to spur
innovation through collaboration at the Institute and beyond. That’s why, in 2015, VAI
appointed Dr. Stephen B. Baylin as the Institute’s first director’s scholar, a position
that fosters teamwork and engages leading scientists from other organizations in our
mission.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
Baylin is a globally recognized expert in the field of cancer epigenetics, which explores
the mechanisms that decide when and where the instructions in our genetic code will be
carried out. Epigenetics has incredible potential to shed new light on cancer and inform
powerful new treatments.
Baylin also is a long-time collaborator of VAI Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Peter A. Jones. As
Director’s Scholar, Baylin spends a quarter of his time at VAI, where he and Jones colead
the Van Andel Institute–Stand Up To Cancer Epigenetics Dream Team. This multiinstitutional
effort is designed to move promising combination therapies for cancer into
clinical trials. At the same time, Baylin maintains his primary affiliation at Johns Hopkins
University Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, where he serves as co-head of
Cancer Biology. On the basic research front, Baylin also collaborates with VAI scientists
to explore cancer epigenetics and drug development.
“Seven million to 10 million people
worldwide have Parkinson's. That's
7 million to 10 million mothers, fathers,
brothers, sisters and friends. And that's
7 million to 10 million reasons to do
this work."
Dr. Patrik Brundin
2016 Terra Tarango appointed education director and
chief education officer
When Terra Tarango joined Van Andel Institute
for Education as director and chief education
officer, she was an accomplished executive
in the education industry with more than 15
years of experience in educational publishing
and services. She served as president of SDE,
one of the largest providers of professional
development for pre-K through 12th grade
educators in the U.S. Prior to that, she
developed an award-winning print and digital
curriculum with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt,
the largest educational publisher in the nation.
2016 The first international students enroll at the
Graduate School
TERRA TARANGO
Tarango’s expertise in instructional climate
and culture has been a tremendous asset
to the Institute’s student and teacher
programs. At VAI, Tarango oversees our
efforts to improve science and inquirybased
instruction in K–12 education across
the country. She and her team provide
innovative science programs for students
and world-class professional development
for educators.
2016 Van Andel Institute–Stand Up To Cancer Epigenetics Dream
Team begins clinical trials on promising new therapies for cancer
38
2015 – 2016

DR. STEPHEN B. BAYLIN, DR. PETER A. JONES & DR. GEORGE VANDE WOUDE, 2015
2016 Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Peter A. Jones is elected to the
prestigious National Academy of Sciences. Director’s Scholar
Dr. Stephen B. Baylin was elected the next year in 2017. Founding
Research Director Dr. George Vande Woude was elected to the
Academy in 1993.
2017 Van Andel Institute for Education hosts then-U.S. Secretary
of Education Betsy DeVos, featuring student interactions and a
teacher round-table discussion
2017 This year sees VAI’s first Predoctoral Fellowship (F31) from
the National Institutes of Health, followed by two successive
Predoctoral to Postdoctoral Fellow Transition Awards (F99/K00)
from the National Cancer Institute in 2017 and 2018
2017 Van Andel Institute for Education launches popular, weeklong
summer camps, as well as a variety of thought leadership
webinars catered to teachers
Summer camps keep the learning going after the school year ends and offer students a
line-up of interactive investigations to feed their curiosity, creativity and critical thinking.
DAVID VAN ANDEL ADVANCED CRYO-ELECTRON MICROSCOPY SUITE
2017 VAI zooms in on life’s building blocks
with cryo-EM
Imagine standing on the moon and having eyes so powerful that you can clearly watch
a tennis match on Earth. Now imagine that same visual power packed into a high-tech
microscope, and you have cryo-EM — a groundbreaking technology that allows scientists
to study the smallest components of life in exquisite detail. In 2017, this revolutionary
platform found a home in VAI’s David Van Andel Advanced Cryo-Electron Microscopy Suite,
a state-of-the-art facility staffed by experts at the forefront of structural biology.
Since then, VAI scientists have leveraged cryo-EM to visualize a host of critical molecules
that may serve as treatment targets for cancer, neurological disorders, metabolic diseases,
infectious diseases and more. They’ve revealed groundbreaking new insights into the
most fundamental aspects of biology, from parsing the ways cells sense and respond to
the environment to illuminating the intricacies of DNA replication. Cryo-EM also aids in the
development of new medications by revealing how a drug molecule disables its
target protein.
The impact of VAI’s cryo-EM goes far beyond its ability to propel breakthroughs by
providing detailed blueprints of life’s biological building blocks. This advanced technology
has brought with it a wellspring of collaboration, catalyzing a gravitational pull that
draws world-class scientists to VAI to work and pursue answers to some of life’s most
fundamental questions.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2016 – 2017
39

2017 Carol Van Andel receives commendation from VAI Boards of
Trustees in recognition of her service to the Institute
Carol Van Andel, executive director of the David and Carol Van Andel Family Foundation
and wife of Van Andel Institute Chairman and CEO David Van Andel, is often heralded
as the heart and soul of Van Andel Institute. This well-deserved accolade recognizes her
philanthropic efforts on behalf of VAI, which today include a variety of signature events
such as Couture for a Cure, Hope on the Hill Gala and Winterfest Celebration.
On June 19, 2017, VAI’s Boards of Trustees commended Carol Van Andel for her deep
dedication to the Institute and engaging the community in support of VAI’s work. During
the tribute luncheon, the Trustees presented a joint resolution and a gift in recognition of
her time, effort and exceptional leadership, as well as the instrumental role she plays as a
community connector, bringing people together in support of the Institute’s mission.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
In addition to helming the Institute’s signature events, Carol Van Andel is a strong
mentor for the students in VAI’s Student Ambassador Program (see p. 43 for more).
These high school students actively learn about and develop skills for creating,
supporting and hosting philanthropic events, and can gain a great deal of knowledge
from her insights.
2017–present VAI breaks funding and publication records
In the scientific world, discoveries are shared through peer-reviewed publications in
research journals, while excellence is recognized through the awarding of grants. Both
are important measures of success.
In 2020, VAI scientists had their best year yet for grants, earning a record $38 million in
total new awards — up from $13 million five years ago in 2016. To date, our best year
for publications was 2017, which saw the highest number of peer-reviewed studies
published in journals at 154. In 2020, VAI scientists published 132 peer-reviewed studies
— an impressive feat, given the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
DAVID & CAROL VAN ANDEL, 2017
As we look toward the future, all signs point to sustained growth in both of these
important metrics, a reflection of the impact and exceptional research underway at VAI.
“Something that never wavers in importance is the passionate commitment of philanthropists and activists who support the scientists in the labs. It’s
important that we acknowledge these powerful examples of philanthropy and honor those who are tireless supporters of life-changing biomedical
research and innovative approaches to science education.”
Carol Van Andel
40
2017

(LEFT TO RIGHT) DR. ADELHEID LEMPRADL, DR. NING WU, DR. J. ANDREW POSPISILIK,
DR. CONNIE KRAWCZYK, DR. RUSSELL JONES & DR. BRIAN HAAB, 2018
2018 VAI establishes its metabolism and nutritional programming
research group
The foods we eat and the energy they produce are foundational to good health. But
what happens when our metabolic balance is disrupted? Can we optimize metabolism
to improve health and stave off disease? Does nutrition have a ripple effect across
the generations?
To answer these questions and more, VAI established its Metabolism and Nutritional
Programming research team in 2018 with the goal of developing scientifically driven
strategies for promoting health and preventing and treating diseases such as cancer,
Parkinson’s and diabetes. This comprehensive endeavor bridges a host of fields, bringing
together experts in metabolism, nutrition, the immune system, epigenetics and other
important areas to reveal new insights that could reshape how we view metabolism from
the whole-body level down to individual cells.
Metabolism powers each and every biological process, from regulating appetite to
ensuring that the heart has enough energy to beat. Some diseases, such as Type 2
diabetes, are wholly metabolic in origin. Others, like cancer, are now known to be
influenced by dysfunctions in metabolism. Even Parkinson’s disease, a neurological
movement disorder that steals away a person’s ability to move, now appears to be
caused, at least in part, by disruptions in cellular metabolism.
As the Institute enters its next 25 years, our Metabolism and Nutritional Programming
research team also is entering an exciting growth phase, with the recruitment of new
faculty to expand its expertise and impact. Together with their colleagues, our scientists
are taking bold steps to transform our understanding of metabolism and to leverage
their discoveries to transform human health.
(LEFT TO RIGHT) DR. STEPHEN B. BAYLIN, ANN SCHOEN & DR. PETER A. JONES, 2018
2018 VAI participates in Stand Up To Cancer telecast
On Sept. 7, 2018, Van Andel Institute was thrilled to be a part of the 2018 Stand Up To
Cancer telecast, which raised a record-breaking $123 million for cancer research.
The biennial special featured our own Ann Schoen, a cancer survivor and a VAI employee
for 25 years, as of 2021. She was part of the “Everyday Heroes” segment honoring
cancer survivors, and was recognized with fellow survivors onstage during the event.
The telecast aired on more than 70 network and broadcast platforms around the world
and brought together some of the entertainment industry’s biggest stars. Millions of
people tuned into the broadcast, which was executive-produced by award-winning actor
and director Bradley Cooper.
The Institute has worked closely with Stand Up To Cancer since 2014, with the creation
of the Van Andel Institute–Stand Up To Cancer Epigenetics Dream Team, a multiinstitutional
effort to move more effective cancer therapies into clinical trials and to the
patients who need them most.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2018
41

2018 VAI scientists, collaborators pinpoint
the appendix as a potential starting
point for Parkinson’s disease, attracting
worldwide media recognition
2019 Blue Apple TM brings inquirybased
learning to life
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
DR. VIVIANE LABRIE (1980–2020)
APPENDIX NERVE CELLS ARE COLORED IN GREEN,
CLUMPED ALPHA-SYNUCLEIN IS COLORED IN RED &
NUCLEI OF APPENDIX NERVE CELLS ARE COLORED
IN BLUE (COURTESY OF THE LABRIE LAB)
When most people think of Parkinson’s disease, the
appendix likely doesn’t come to mind.
But a landmark 2018 study led by VAI scientists
suggests that it should. They discovered that removing
the appendix early in life significantly reduces the risk
of developing Parkinson’s disease and slightly delays
symptom onset in people who still go on to develop
Parkinson’s. Importantly, they also identified the
appendix as a storehouse for the protein alpha-synuclein
(photo at bottom left). This protein adopts an abnormal
shape in Parkinson’s; some believe it could travel along
nerves up to the brain early in the disease.
The study did not make the case for removing the
appendix as a preventative measure. Instead, it solidified
the notion that the gut and immune system play roles in
the origin of the disease and provided vital insights that
could open the door to new therapies.
Major media outlets around the world highlighted this
discovery. Only one week after the study published,
the story had reached nearly 1 billion people and firmly
established the study’s senior author, the late Dr. Viviane
Labrie, as a rising superstar in her field.
Tragically, Dr. Labrie lost her life in a vehicle accident
in August 2020. She is remembered as an exceptional
scientist, an outstanding colleague and a beloved
wife, daughter and friend. Her scientific contributions
continue to transform our understanding of Parkinson’s,
Alzheimer’s and psychiatric disorders and will do so for
years to come. She is deeply and profoundly missed.
Classrooms have the power to transform lives. They serve
as an epicenter of society's collective efforts to develop and
encourage young minds to thrive in an increasingly fast-paced
and ever-changing world. In support of the teachers and
students in these classrooms across the country, Van Andel
Institute for Education launched the Blue Apple program in
2019. These project-based learning units increase student
engagement and support teachers who want to make a
significant difference in their students' lives. Blue Apple provides
K–8 teachers with project plans and supplies, connections
to real-world experts, cross-curricular content, and the
opportunity to collaborate with other classrooms. Since its
launch, Blue Apple has been adopted by more than 200 schools
throughout the Midwest and beyond.
Blue Apple proved to be particularly critical in 2020, when
schools found themselves shifting to remote learning during
the COVID-19 pandemic. The Institute's educators and staff
adapted each Blue Apple project-based learning unit to include
instructions for how to conduct them virtually or in a hybrid
classroom model.
"Switching to virtual on a dime posed some obstacles, but
we thrive on problem-solving," said Terra Tarango, education
director and chief education officer. "So, we embraced the
challenge and discovered innovative ways to keep both students
and teachers fully engaged in remote environments."
Some examples of Blue Apple projects include:
High Energy: Can we save our school
money while saving the planet?
Prevent the Spread: How can we stop
germs in their tracks?
Lend a Hand: Can a few cents revitalize a
community?
42
2018 – 2019

(LEFT TO RIGHT) HOLLY BARKER, ISABELLA HARNISH, EMILY DEAN, GRACE GEER, CAROL VAN ANDEL, BRIANNA VOLPE, ABBY MILES, MARGARET BRUEMMER & KENDALL HALUCH
2019 VAI Student Ambassador Program launched
VAI boasts a long, impactful history with students and young
leaders of the West Michigan community, thanks in large
part to the work of Van Andel Institute for Education and VAI
Purple Community. In 2019, that impact grew even more with
the launch of the VAI Student Ambassador Program.
This program brings area high school students together
to learn about and see in action how the efforts of even a
single person can make a difference, whether in school, at
an organization or in a community.
Student Ambassadors apply at the beginning of each
school year, and gather throughout the year to interact
with and learn from VAI’s scientists, educators and staff
about the Institute and why community support is integral
to our work. Carol Van Andel, executive director of the
David and Carol Van Andel Family Foundation and wife
of VAI Chairman and CEO David Van Andel, also joins the
group each year to share her philanthropic experiences
and insight and to provide a guiding light as the students
approach their culminating fundraiser.
The inaugural cohort comprised 11 ambassadors. In 2020,
the program went virtual in accordance with guidelines
related to the COVID-19 pandemic. It still attracted
28 ambassadors from 11 different schools in West
Michigan, who collaborated to host a virtual silent auction
in April 2021. All proceeds from the auction directly
benefited the research and education programs at
the Institute.
Former VAI Student Ambassadors have
hailed from the following schools:
• Caledonia High School
• Cedar Springs High School
• East Grand Rapids High School
• Forest Hills Northern High School
• Grand Rapids Catholic Central
• Grand Rapids Christian High School
• Grand Rapids Public Schools City High Middle School
• Holland Christian High School
• Otsego High School
• Wayland Union High School
• West Catholic High School
• West Michigan Aviation Academy
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2019
43

VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
STUDENTS AT SAN JUAN DIEGO ACADEMY ENGAGING WITH BLUE APPLE PILOT PROGRAM
2020 Two new programs from Van Andel Institute for
Education launch
Flexible and customizable, Flex PD tailors professional development content to each
school’s needs. As learning loss became a larger conversation during the COVID-19
pandemic, Flex PD evolved to help prepare teachers to successfully close instructional
gaps in the coming school year. This model features immersive, in-person workshops,
learning sessions hosted virtually or in person, and ongoing access to instructional
coaches. Every plan focuses on building or district-level needs, and promotes tangible
shifts in practice with the support needed to take on the school year successfully.
Another innovation born from virtual learning environments, Better Together is a series
of free, virtual networking events for school administrators. These events create the
space and time for administrators to network with peers and learn how others are
navigating challenges and changes in the educational space.
STUDENTS IN THE NEW VAI GRADUATE SCHOOL BUILDING
2020–2021 Faculty, graduate student and postdoctoral fellow
recruitment efforts grow
Van Andel Institute has enjoyed tremendous growth in the years since our founding, but
our mission has remained the same: to improve health and enhance lives for current
and future generations. A large part of this work is accomplished by our world-renowned
faculty — the scientific leaders of today — and in training students and postdoctoral
fellows who will one day be independent scientists and continue to tackle the health
problems of tomorrow.
Our efforts took a significant leap forward in 2020 with successful campaigns to recruit
new faculty members and graduate students to the Institute. This push resulted in the
recruitment of six new faculty, the first of whom arrived at VAI in summer 2021.
In August 2021, Van Andel Institute Graduate School welcomed a cohort of 14 students
from eight countries — the result of a successful outreach campaign. The Institute
also launched a multipronged effort to recruit postdoctoral fellows, including a Cancer
Epigenetics Training Program 1 funded by the National Cancer Institute of the National
Institutes of Health, and the VAI-funded Inspire Fellowship, which is designed to increase
representation at VAI and in science by supporting postdoctoral fellows from underrepresented
groups.
1
The Cancer Epigenetics Training program is supported by a National Cancer Institute T32
training grant (no. T32CA251066). The content is solely the responsibility of VAI and does not
necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.
44
2020 – 2021

2021 VAI launches new initiatives
in neurodegenerative diseases
and metabolism
Catalyzing collaboration and innovation is at the
core of VAI’s mission. That’s why, in 2021, the
Institute launched two new initiatives designed to
power breakthroughs in West Michigan: the West
Michigan Neurodegenerative Diseases (MiND)
Program and the Metabolism and Nutritional
Programming in Disease (MeNu) Program.
These endeavors will bring together VAI’s in-house
experts in neurodegeneration and metabolism
with the goal of accelerating progress in these
critical areas.
The MiND program will be home to collaborative
sample collection and genetic sequencing efforts.
The data garnered from these efforts will be used
to seek out genetic changes that may play roles in
diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
The MeNu program seeks to rapidly expand
VAI’s metabolism research capabilities, giving
our scientists the tools they need to investigate
metabolism in health and disease.
Both MiND and MeNu will provide dedicated
research awards to help eligible postdoctoral
fellows transition from being trainees to
independent positions, and will support the
acquisition of powerful new technologies to
drive research and propel discovery. They also
include special funding mechanisms to support
interdisciplinary research projects designed to
garner the initial data required to earn larger
federal awards.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
Together, these cross-cutting programs will
spur innovation and collaboration across
VAI, enhancing discovery and transforming
human health.
2021
45

VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
46
2021
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE GRADUATE SCHOOL, 2021 (CENTER BUILDING PICTURED)

2021 A new chapter for Van Andel Institute
Graduate School begins
Since its founding in 2005, Van Andel Institute Graduate
School has been at the vanguard of training the scientific
leaders of tomorrow. The Graduate School’s inaugural
cohort, welcomed in 2007, comprised three students.
Fifteen years later, the Institute welcomed our largestever
cohort: 14 students, and our most diverse yet.
Expanding the number of Ph.D. students undergirds
the Graduate School’s strategic vision. In recent years,
the Graduate School has continually attracted record
numbers of applicants for its rigorous, problem-focused
Ph.D. program in molecular and cellular biology. As the
size of incoming cohorts grew, it was clear the Graduate
School needed to “graduate” from its longtime home on
the fifth floor of VAI’s Bostwick Avenue facility.
In spring 2021, the Graduate School moved into its new
home at 234 N Division Ave., directly across from the
Institute’s main campus and next to Van Andel Institute
for Education. The renovated space includes classrooms
and workstations; quiet spaces for students to read,
think and study; shared space where students can
interact and collaborate; kitchen and lounge areas; and a
reading room.
The new space allows the Graduate School to comfortably
grow into its next chapter while maintaining the
characteristics that have long made it attractive to
students: innovative approaches to teaching, intimate
cohort sizes, access to cutting-edge technology, and
guidance by faculty mentors at the top of their
research fields.
Through the years, several VAI scientists have been elected to prestigious scientific
societies. Their membership among these cadres of elite experts reflects their extensive
scientific contributions and elevates VAI’s reputation in the U.S. and abroad.
American Association for Cancer Research Academy
Stephen B. Baylin, M.D.
Director’s Scholar, VAI
Co-Head of Cancer Biology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive
Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins University
Elected 2014
Peter A. Jones, Ph.D., D.Sc. (hon)
Chief Scientific Officer
Elected 2013
George Vande Woude, Ph.D. (1935–2021)
Founding Research Director
Elected 2013
National Academy of Sciences
Stephen B. Baylin, M.D.
Director’s Scholar, VAI
Co-Head of Cancer Biology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive
Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins University
Elected 2017
Peter A. Jones, Ph.D., D.Sc. (hon)
Chief Scientific Officer
Elected 2016
George Vande Woude, Ph.D. (1935–2021)
Founding Research Director
Elected 1993
American Association for the Advancement of Science
Stephen B. Baylin, M.D.
Director’s Scholar, VAI
Co-Head of Cancer Biology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive
Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins University
Elected 2020
Gerd Pfeifer, Ph.D.
Professor
Elected 2015
George Vande Woude, Ph.D. (1935–2021)
Founding Research Director
Elected 2013
Peter A. Jones, Ph.D., D.Sc. (hon)
Chief Scientific Officer
Elected 2009
American Academy of Arts & Sciences
Peter A. Jones, Ph.D., D.Sc. (hon)
Chief Scientific Officer
Elected 2017
George Vande Woude, Ph.D. (1935–2021)
Founding Research Director
Elected 2006
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2021
47

Notable achievements from VAI for Research
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
A quarter-century of
groundbreaking work
is difficult to condense.
Here are just some
of VAI’s most notable
achievements throughout
the years.
Awards
and
honors
VAI scientists have been
recognized throughout
the years with these
accolades.
Spread of Parkinson’s disease
through the brain, 2013
VAI scientists were the first to
show that a Parkinson’s diseaseassociated
protein spreads from
parts of the brain connected to the
nose to other brain regions affected
by the disease. The discovery has
implications for finding ways to slow
or stop disease progression.
Developing more precise
medications, 2015
VAI scientists for the first time
identified the structure of a G
protein-coupled receptor, a major
drug target, which is a critical step
in understanding its function and
leveraging it for the treatment of
disease.
Clarivate Highly Cited Researchers
are scientists who have
demonstrated significant and
broad influence reflected in their
publication of multiple highly cited
papers. Their highly cited papers
rank in the top 1% by citations for a
chosen field and year.
The Pew Scholars Program in
Biomedical Sciences provides
funding to young investigators of
outstanding promise in science
relevant to the advancement of
human health.
Creating a cancer atlas, 2015
VAI scientists played integral roles
in The Cancer Genome Atlas, a
federally led project to molecularly
map cancer. The more than
decade-long initiative was the most
in-depth undertaking of its kind,
spanning 10,000 tumors across
33 cancer types.
Viral mimicry improves cancer
treatment, 2015
VAI scientists and collaborators
have found that anti-cancer drugs
called demethylating agents trick
cancer cells to behave as though
they are infected with a virus or
other pathogen. This “viral mimicry”
leads to cell death, decreasing
the number of cancer cells and
The Sloan Research Fellowship
recognizes and rewards
outstanding early-career faculty
who have the potential to
revolutionize their fields of study.
The McKnight Scholar Award
encourages neuroscientists in the
early stages of their careers to
focus on disorders of learning and
memory.
The Klingenstein-Simons
Fellowship Award supports earlycareer
investigators engaged in
basic or clinical research that may
lead to a better understanding
of neurological and psychiatric
disorders.
improving the effectiveness of
other treatments, such as chemoand
immunotherapies.
Copying the genetic code, 2017
VAI scientists are studying how
DNA replicates, which may one day
contribute to the development of
better therapies for the more than
40 diseases related to failures in
this process.
Stand Up To Cancer Catalyst®
awards, 2017
The Van Andel Institute–Stand
Up To Cancer Epigenetics Dream
Team scientists earned two of
10 prestigious Catalyst awards from
Stand Up To Cancer, which support
clinical trials for new bladder cancer
The Allen Distinguished
Investigator Award by The Paul G.
Allen Frontiers Group, a division of
the Allen Institute, supports earlystage
research with the potential to
reinvent entire fields.
The ASAP Award from Aligning
Science Across Parkinson’s
supports multidisciplinary,
collaborative research teams that
address key knowledge gaps in the
basic mechanisms that contribute
to Parkinson’s development and
progression.
and non-small cell lung cancer
therapies.
Establishing a link between the
appendix & Parkinson’s, 2018
VAI scientists identified the
appendix as a possible starting
point for Parkinson’s, opening the
door to potential new therapies
that aim to head off the disease
in the gut, long before motor
symptoms occur.
Potential blood test for pancreatic
cancer, 2019
VAI scientists are developing a
new combination blood test for
pancreatic cancer that may help
catch the disease sooner, which
could lead to earlier and more
effective medical intervention.
The Specialized Programs of
Research Excellence (SPORE)
Grant from the National Cancer
Institute of the National Institutes
of Health supports nearly
20 scientists from VAI and the
Coriell Institute for Medical
Research as they work to improve
epigenetic therapies for cancer.
The Ruth L. Kirschstein National
Research Service Award (NRSA)
Institutional Research Training
Grant (T32) from NCI supports
institutions in developing or
enhancing research training
opportunities for predoctoral and
postdoctoral fellows to be trained
in cancer research.
48

Notable achievements from
VAI Graduate School
2005 Dr. Gordon Van Harn guides the founding of Van Andel Institute Graduate School and
obtains a charter from the State of Michigan to grant doctoral and master’s degrees
2007 First students enroll in the Graduate School and are welcomed in opening convocation
2012 First students graduate from the Graduate School
2013 Graduate School receives initial accreditation by Higher Learning Commission
2016 First international students enroll in the Graduate School
2017– First of several Predoctoral Fellowship (F31) from the National Institutes of
2018 Health are received, as well as two Predoctoral to Postdoctoral Fellow Transition
Awards (F99/K00) from the National Cancer Institute of NIH
Notable achievements from
VAI for Education
2017 Hosted visit from then-U.S. Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos
Launched Summer Camps
Launched thought leadership webinars for teachers
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
2018 Appointed two new trustees to Education board: Teresa Weatherall Neal, Ed.D.
(hon) and Susan Keipper Meell
2019 Launched second strand of Afterschool Cohort, focusing on human innovation
in space exploration, natural disasters, and energy
Launched Blue Apple projects to help teachers implement project-based learning
2020 Launched Flex PD, customizable professional development services for schools
Launched Better Together, virtual networking events for school administrators
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Building on success, embracing the future
Van Andel Institute’s story began with a vision: to make
Grand Rapids a world leader in biomedical research
and education, for the betterment of human health for
generations to come. In the last 25 years, we’re happy to
say that this dream has become a reality.
Over the years, we’ve made vital breakthroughs in
diseases like cancer and Parkinson’s, and in the areas
of cell biology, structural biology, and metabolism
and nutrition. We’ve found evidence of the origins of
Parkinson’s disease in places you wouldn’t expect, such
as the nose and the appendix. We are a powerhouse of
epigenetics research, investigating the very code that makes
us who we are.
Through it all, we are committed to translating discovery
into the clinic, where it can help people live longer, healthier
lives. You’ve read about our array of clinical trials designed
to find effective new treatments — work that we are excited
to continue and expand in the coming years.
VAI also remains dedicated to developing the next
generation of scientists who will build on the foundations
laid by our world-class faculty. Our expert educators
at Van Andel Institute for Education offer cutting-edge
science educational programming for K–12 educators and
students, and Van Andel Institute Graduate School trains
the scientific leaders of tomorrow through a rigorous Ph.D.
program in molecular and cellular biology.
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
50

We celebrate these achievements, but we also know that
our work is far from done. The Institute is growing, pushing
toward a future of boundless potential and innovation.
Let’s recap some recent successes outlined in these
pages. As of fall 2021, VAI had recently brought on six new
faculty members under a recruitment push to expand our
research capacity in our areas of strength.
In August 2021, the Graduate School welcomed its largest
and most diverse student cohort yet: 14 students from
eight countries. Van Andel Institute for Education has deftly
responded to upheavals in the educational landscape by
tailoring its programs to be available online, in-person or a
hybrid of the two — positioning us well as a reliable asset
to educators everywhere.
All these achievements could not be accomplished without
community. We want to thank every person, every school
and organization, and every family that has contributed
to our success over the years. There are countless who
invested their time, energy and resources into our work,
and we are so grateful for the support of our mission
through your generosity.
In large part because of this support, Van Andel Institute
has come so far in just a quarter-century. From those early
days, with a staff in the dozens and temporary research
space at Butterworth Hospital, we’ve grown into an
organization boasting nearly 500 scientists, educators and
staff, with work that is recognized around the world.
The Medical Mile continues to spring up around VAI, and
we’re proud to be part of such strong investment and
growth in the health and biomedical sciences in Grand
Rapids. Our founders’ vision set the pace and tone for a
bright future where VAI can help lead the charge into a
healthier future for all of humankind.
To our dedicated supporters,
Van Andel Institute is proud of all that we’ve
accomplished in the last quarter-century. But more than
that, we are immensely grateful for the support you
have given us from the very beginning.
Whether you give of your time, energy, impact or funds,
we appreciate you more than we can say. The incredible
research and education breakthroughs that come
from VAI could not happen without the support of our
community. Your generosity helps make sure we can
continue our work to improve health and enhance lives.
Thank you for 25 wonderful years — we look forward to
many more!
VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE | 25 YEARS
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333 Bostwick Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | P 616.234.5000 | vai.org