2021 Annual Report

2021 

ANNUAL 

REPORT

Van Andel Institute began with a vision: 

to improve human health. 

A hub for ideas and advancements, the Institute is fueled by a 

community of bright minds who share a relentless curiosity and 

a deep commitment to make the world a better place through 

biomedical research into diseases like cancer and Parkinson’s, as 

well as K–12 and graduate education. 

At Van Andel Institute, we do more than dream about improving 

human health. We strive to make it a reality every day.

Table of Contents 

2 A letter from David Van Andel 

4 Research 

6 Research highlights: Epigenetics 

8 Research highlights: Neurodegenerative 

Science 

10 Research highlights: Cell Biology 

11 Van Andel Institute earns prestigious 

grant to train the next generation of cancer 

epigenetics experts 

12 Research highlights: Structural Biology 

13 VAI scientists recognized as highly 

cited researchers 

14 Research highlights: Metabolism and 

Nutritional Programming 

15 Translating impact from lab to clinic 

16 VAI principal investigators 

24 Van Andel Institute Graduate School: 

An innovative approach to graduate 

education 

28 Education 

30 Education highlights 

34 Events and Philanthropy 

36 Event photos 

44 Signature special event sponsors 

46 The Howard Miller Company: Community 

support with global impact 

48 Blake Crabb: Meet the newest JBoard 

Ambassadors co-chair 

50 Philanthropy highlights 

52 Circle of Hope and by the numbers 

53 Institute leadership team 

54 Board Members 

56 Board of Governors 

57 JBoard Ambassadors 

1

A letter from David Van Andel 

Dear Friends and Supporters, 

As Van Andel Institute concludes celebrating its first 

25 years and embarks on the next quarter-century of 

service to a world in need, we approach our mission 

with a sense of humility and gratitude. 

We trust you’ll find those feelings reflected in the 

pages of this annual report — a chance for all of us at 

the Institute to express how incredibly grateful we are 

for the countless individuals and organizations who 

support our ongoing efforts to distinguish ourselves as 

a global player in biomedical research and education. 

Arguably more than at any time in recent history, we 

live in a state of constant flux, immersed in a world 

becoming more connected and more complex by 

the day. No matter how the world turns, however, 

we remain committed to conducting cutting-edge 

research into diseases like cancer, Parkinson’s, 

Alzheimer’s, related dementias and more. We’ve also 

cemented our place as a leader in scientific education, 

serving students as young as 5 years old through Ph.D. 

candidates. 

Dive into the world’s most prestigious journals, and 

you’ll discover papers authored by our own scientists 

— more evidence of our tireless quest to draw from the 

best and brightest this planet has to offer. 

Our roles as leaders and collaborators are becoming 

well-known around the world. In 2021, five of our 

scientists were named to the Clarivate Highly Cited 

Researchers List — an honor bestowed on fewer than 

1 in 1,000 scientists. We also earned record-breaking 

funding support throughout 2021 and reacted swiftly 

and with savvy to tailor our educational programs to 

hybrid classrooms created to counter the effects of 

the pandemic. 

From humble beginnings, VAI has emerged as a 

principal player on the world stage. But not a single 

accomplishment could have been achieved without your 

support. Community is the lifeblood of our existence, 

and we are beyond grateful for all those who have 

chosen to partner with us on our voyage of discovery. 

From all of us at Van Andel Institute — and the millions 

on whose behalf we work with such zeal — thank you, 

and God bless you. 

Sincerely, 

David Van Andel 

Van Andel Institute Chairman & CEO 

2

3

VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE 

FOR RESEARCH 

EVERY DAY, WE COLLABORATE AT THE FOREFRONT OF FUNDAMENTAL AND 

TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE IN PURSUIT OF BREAKTHROUGH TREATMENT 

STRATEGIES FOR CANCER, PARKINSON’S AND OTHER DISEASES. OUR 

GRADUATE SCHOOL OFFERS A RIGOROUS, RESEARCH-INTENSIVE PH.D. 

PROGRAM THAT DEVELOPS LEADERS IN MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR BIOLOGY. 

THROUGH SHARED VALUES AND AN ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT, WE SPARK 

INNOVATION TO MULTIPLY THE IMPACT OF DISCOVERY AND ANSWER CRITICAL 

QUESTIONS FOR OUR WORLD.

Department of Epigenetics 

Scientists in Van Andel Institute’s Department of 

Epigenetics seek to understand how epigenetic 

changes may either protect us from or predispose us 

to complex diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s and 

metabolic disorders. They do so by: 

Building on the basics: From uncovering the 

underpinnings of disease to understanding the 

mechanisms that propel the spread of diseases like 

cancer, VAI scientists are dedicated to revealing 

the molecular machinery that underlies a variety of 

complex disorders. 

Translating discovery: Institute scientists are 

committed to putting laboratory discoveries to work 

in the real world by helping to translate them into 

actionable new treatments that can better combat 

disease and save lives. 

Moving new therapies into the clinic: VAI works 

closely with leading medical organizations in the U.S. 

and abroad to take new therapies into the doctor’s 

office through clinical trials, which are vital for 

ensuring new treatments are safe and effective. The 

Institute is home to the Van Andel Institute–Stand 

Up To Cancer (VAI–SU2C) Epigenetics Dream Team, 

a multi-institutional, collaborative effort that brings 

together several of the world’s most respected 

research and clinical organizations in an effort to 

translate scientific discoveries into new standards of 

patient care. The goal is simple — get new and more 

effective cancer therapies to patients faster. For more 

information on our clinical collaborations, please see 

page 15. 

2021 HIGHLIGHTS 

Early study points to potential therapeutic 

avenue for a pair of rare pediatric diseases 

(Dr. Piroska Szabó) — VAI scientist Dr. Piroska 

Szabó and colleagues have devised a new approach for 

detecting and potentially heading off the effects of two 

rare pediatric diseases before birth. 

The study, performed in lab models of the diseases and 

published in Cell Reports, represents an important step 

toward much-needed early interventions for Beckwith- 

Wiedemann syndrome and Silver-Russell syndrome. 

Both diseases result in growth-related symptoms in 

children and often lead to additional problems later 

in life, such as increased cancer risk from Beckwith- 

Wiedemann syndrome and increased metabolic disease 

risk from Silver-Russell syndrome. 1 

Study explores how environmental exposures 

before conception may impact fetal 

development (Dr. Peter A. Jones) — A report 

published in Proceedings of the National Academy of 

Sciences suggests older age and alcohol consumption 

in the year leading up to conception may epigenetically 

alter a specific gene during development of human eggs, 

or oocytes. 

Although the study did not determine the ultimate 

physical effects of this change, it provides important 

insights into the intricate relationship between 

environmental exposures, genetic regulation and 

human development. 2 

Study reveals source of DNA mutations in 

melanoma (Dr. Gerd Pfeifer) — The mutations 

that give rise to melanoma result from a chemical 

conversion in DNA fueled by sunlight — not just a 

DNA copying error as previously believed, reports a 

study by Van Andel Institute scientists published in 

Science Advances. 

The findings upend long-held beliefs about the 

mechanisms underlying the disease, reinforce the 

importance of prevention efforts and offer a path 

forward for investigating the origins of other 

cancer types. 3 

Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 

Van Andel Institute awarded estimated 

$12.4 million SPORE grant from National 

Cancer Institute (Dr. Peter A. Jones and 

Dr. Stephen Baylin) — The Coriell Institute for 

Medical Research and VAI were awarded a prestigious 

Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (or 

SPORE) grant from the National Cancer Institute 

(award P50CA254897). The five-year grant valued 

at an estimated $12.4 million supports nearly 

20 scientists as they work to improve epigenetic 

therapies for cancer. The project is co-led by Coriell’s 

President and CEO Dr. Jean-Pierre Issa, VAI’s Chief 

Scientific Officer Dr. Peter A. Jones and Johns Hopkins 

University and VAI’s Dr. Stephen Baylin. 

6

RESEARCH 

Van Andel Institute, Maine Medical Center 

Research Institute scientists earn $9.6 million 

Transformative Research Award from National 

Institutes of Health (Dr. J. Andrew Pospisilik) 

— VAI’s Dr. J. Andrew Pospisilik and Maine Medical 

Center Research Institute’s Dr. Joseph Nadeau earned a 

five-year, $9.6 million Transformative Research Award 

from the National Institutes of Health to answer a set 

of questions that could fundamentally transform our 

understanding of health and disease: If you were born 

multiple times under the exact same circumstances, 

would you turn out to be the same person each time? 

And if not, what implications could the differences 

have for your health? 

The answers could revolutionize our understanding 

of how probabilistic variation influences health before 

birth and throughout life — and provide insights into 

new strategies for combating cancer, obesity and a 

host of other health concerns and diseases. 

This groundbreaking research is made possible by 

a Transformative Research Award, part of the NIH 

Common Fund’s High-Risk, High-Reward Research 

Program. The award promotes cross-cutting, 

interdisciplinary approaches to projects that have 

potential to create new paradigms or challenge 

existing ones, according to NIH. 4 

American Cancer Society grant to support 

Van Andel Institute research into anti-cancer 

medications (Dr. Scott Rothbart) — Dr. Scott 

Rothbart earned a four-year, $792,000 Research 

Scholar’s Grant from the American Cancer Society to 

investigate the mechanisms that power a promising 

class of potent anti-cancer drugs. 

The drugs, called EZH2 inhibitors, work by targeting 

an enzyme called EZH2 that has long been of interest 

to cancer researchers because it interacts with the 

proteins that support DNA. As such, EZH2 plays a major 

role in switching genes that regulate cell proliferation 

“on” or “off” — a process that can lead to cancer if it 

goes awry. It also helps tumors evade attack by the 

immune system. 

Because of their central role in all aspects of health 

and disease, proteins and the molecules that interact 

with them, such as EZH2, often are powerful targets 

for therapeutic development. Currently, several EZH2 

inhibitors are undergoing clinical trials in cancer. 5 7 

Funding Acknowledgements 

Research reported in this publication was funded by: 

1 

Van Andel Institute and the National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health under award no. R01GM064378 (Szabó). 

2 

Van Andel Institute and the National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health under award no. F32GM129987 (Carpenter). 

3 

Van Andel Institute and the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health under award no. R21CA228089 (Pfeifer). 

4 

The Office of the Director of the National Institutes of Health under award no. 1R01HG012444 (Pospisilik and Nadeau). 

5 

A Research Scholar Grant, RSG-21-031-01-DMC (Rothbart) from the American Cancer Society. 

The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health or other granting organizations.

Department of Neurodegenerative Science 

The Institute’s Department of Neurodegenerative 

Science is home to experts in Parkinson’s disease 

and other progressive neurological disorders such as 

Alzheimer’s and related dementias, and depression. 

Our goal is to improve quality of life for patients by: 

Impeding disease progression: VAI scientists are 

working to better understand the complex causes of 

Parkinson’s in order to develop new treatments that 

slow or stop the disease’s progression or even prevent 

it altogether — something no current treatment 

can do. 

Developing ways to repair the brain: The 

symptoms of Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative 

diseases occur when certain brain cells are damaged 

or killed. At the Institute, scientists are exploring 

innovative ways to repair this damage and restore 

lost function. 

Designing more definitive diagnostic methods: 

There are currently no definitive diagnostic tests for 

Parkinson’s, which complicates treatment decisions 

and puts an undue burden on people with the disease. 

Institute scientists are searching for biological 

indicators called biomarkers, which can be assessed 

objectively and used to improve diagnosis. 

Investigating the underpinnings of Alzheimer’s 

and other disorders: VAI’s research extends 

beyond Parkinson’s into diseases like Alzheimer’s, 

frontotemporal dementia, amyotrophic lateral 

sclerosis, and depression and suicidality. 


Blood markers can predict depression in pregnancy (Dr. Lena Brundin) — Signs of 

inflammation in the blood reliably predict and identify severe depression in pregnancy, reported a study led 

by Van Andel Institute’s Dr. Lena Brundin and Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services’ Dr. Eric Achtyes. 

The team’s analysis established a set of 15 biological markers found in the blood that can predict if pregnant 

women will experience significant depressive symptoms with more than 80% accuracy. The findings could 

give physicians a much-needed tool to identify women who may be at risk for depression and better tailor 

their care throughout pregnancy. 1 

Insights into a gene implicated in inherited Parkinson’s may shed light on the disease’s 

broader underpinnings (Dr. Darren Moore) — Although we don’t yet know exactly what causes more 

than 90% of Parkinson’s disease cases, the insights gleaned from the remaining 10% may help us better 

understand — and one day better treat — all types of the disease. This small subset of cases is caused by 

changes in certain genes that are passed down through families. Now, Dr. Darren Moore and his team have 

found that one of these genes, VPS35, is a key player in the maintenance and survival of brain cells that 

regulate movement. They also discovered that problems with this gene appear to interfere with cellular 

housekeeping, allowing clumps of sticky proteins to form that damage brain cells. Their findings have 

implications not only for Parkinson’s but also for diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). 2 

‘Roadmaps’ of the brain reveal regions vulnerable to Alzheimer’s disease (Dr. Michael 

Henderson) — Much like a supply truck crossing the countryside, the misfolded proteins that damage 

neurons in Alzheimer’s disease travel the “roads” of the brain, sometimes stopping or even re-routing 

to avoid roadblocks, reports a study by VAI’s Dr. Michael Henderson and collaborators at University of 

Pennsylvania. Understanding how and why this happens could clear the way for the development of new 

therapies to slow or stop disease progression. 3 

Van Andel Institute scientists and collaborators receive more than $15 million in grants to 

accelerate Parkinson’s disease research (Dr. Michael Henderson and Dr. Hong-yuan Chu) 

— Two VAI scientists and their collaborators were awarded more than $15 million to advance Parkinson’s 

disease research and accelerate development of new therapies. 

This pair of awards, called Collaborative Research Network grants, comes from Aligning Science Across 

Parkinson’s, a coordinated research initiative to accelerate the pace of discovery and inform the path to a 

cure for Parkinson’s through collaboration, research-enabling resources and data sharing. 

8

RESEARCH 

VAI’s Dr. Michael Henderson and colleagues at Yale University and University of Pennsylvania were awarded 

$9 million to identify areas and cell types in the brain that may be particularly vulnerable to Parkinson’s disease. 4 

VAI’s Dr. Hong-yuan Chu and colleagues at Emory University were awarded $6.3 million to investigate the brain’s 

motor cortex — which helps manage movement — and its role in Parkinson’s. Changes to the cells that comprise 

this critical brain region have long been implicated in the disease. They also will collaborate with scientists at 

SUNY Downstate and INSCOPIX. 5 

Understanding gut inflammation may hold clues to mitigating Parkinson’s onset (Dr. Patrik 

Brundin) — Chronic inflammation in the gut may propel processes in the body that give rise to Parkinson’s 

disease, according to a study by Dr. Patrik Brundin’s lab at VAI and colleagues at Roche. The findings add to a 

growing list that links the gut and the immune system to Parkinson’s, and track with several large-scale studies 

that show an association between Parkinson’s and inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and 

Crohn’s disease. 6 


Research reported in this publication was supported by: 

1 

Van Andel Institute, Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services and the National Institute of Mental Health of the National Institutes of Health under award no. 

R01MH104622 (Brundin). The clinical trial identifier is NCT02566980. 

2 

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke of the National Institutes of Health under award nos. R01NS105432 (Moore), R01NS117137 (Moore) and R01NS101958 

(Cowell); American Parkinson Disease Association (Sargent); and Van Andel Institute. 

3 

The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research award no. 16879 (Henderson); the National Institute on Aging of the National Institutes of Health under award nos. 

T32AG000255 (Lee), P30AG010124 (Trojanowski) and U19AG062418 (Trojanowski); the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke of the National Institutes of 

Health under award nos. P50-NS053488 (Trojanowski) and R01NS099348 (Bassett); the National Institute of Mental Health of the National Institutes of Health under award 

no. F30MH118871-01 (Cornblath); and the National Science Foundation under award nos. PHY1554488 (Bassett) and BCS1631550 (to Bassett). Bassett also acknowledges support 

from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, the ISI Foundation, the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, and the Paul G. Allen Foundation. 

4 

Funds from Yale University as part of an Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s Collaborative Research Network award. 

5 

Funds from Emory University as part of an Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s Collaborative Research Network award. 

6 

Van Andel Institute and Roche. Early work on this project was supported in part by the European Research Council. 

The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health or other granting organizations. 

9

Department of Cell Biology 

Our health, and consequently our lives, depends on the coordinated activities of our individual cells; 

diseases arise when the activities of these cells become derailed. Through combined expertise in different 

cell types and communication mechanisms and using state-of-the-art approaches, scientists in VAI’s 

Department of Cell Biology pursue fundamental research to understand how our cells grow, communicate, 

survive, assemble into tissues and organs, respond to the environment, and change with age. This 

transformative work will yield new diagnostic and treatment strategies to improve the quality of life for 

people with cancer, bone diseases and rare disorders. 

Studying how cells assemble and repair organs: VAI scientists are looking closely at how cells replicate 

and gradually become specialized, particularly in the skeleton and the blood. The department’s labs focus on 

understanding a host of cellular processes, including how cells sense the changes in the body, how cells adjust to 

meet these needs, how cells talk to and work with each other, how the aging process damages cell integrity and 

contributes to disease, and how to restore the proper cellular function in aging organs. 

Understanding how derailed cells trigger cancers: Cancer can occur when cells get derailed during growth 

or specialization. VAI scientists are investigating the genetic and molecular cues for abnormal cell activity in 

the development of cancers, including leukemia, breast cancer, sarcomas and pancreatic cancer. They aim to 

translate this knowledge into novel approaches for diagnosis and treatment. 

Exploring how cellular processes change over time: As our cells age, changes arise that lead to dysfunction 

and disease. VAI scientists are exploring how cellular processes that function seamlessly in healthy people can 

fail as people age. This research may one day inform treatments to delay or prevent osteoarthritis, bone fragility 

and cancer. 


Van Andel Institute scientist earns 

$2.4 million grant to investigate cellular 

communication in development and disease 

(Dr. Stephanie Grainger) — Dr. Stephanie Grainger 

was awarded a $2,375,000, five-year Maximizing 

Investigators’ Research Award from the National 

Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National 

Institutes of Health. This prestigious grant will support 

Grainger’s exploration of a critical type of cellular 

communication that drives healthy development and, 

when disrupted, can spur cancer, osteoporosis, heart 

conditions and other diseases. 1 

VAI scientists sleuth out key differences 

between tumors that may inform treatment 

for a rare disease (Dr. Matt Steensma) — 

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a rare disorder that 

causes the growth of benign tumors on tissues, such 

as skin, and on the protective sheath that covers nerve 

cells. These tumors can be painful and debilitating, 

especially if they put too much pressure on nerves. In 

2021, the lab of Dr. Matt Steensma identified important 

genetic and epigenetic differences between NF1-related 

nerve and skin tumors, giving scientists a potential 

path forward for developing more precise treatments 

that target these tumors at their molecular roots. 2 



1 

The National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of 

Health under award no. R35GM142779 (Grainger). 

2 

The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and the Neurofibromatosis 

Therapeutics Acceleration Program (NTAP) (Steensma). 

The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily 

represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health or other granting 

organizations. 

10

RESEARCH 

Van Andel Institute earns prestigious grant to train the next generation of cancer epigenetics experts 

The National Cancer Institute awarded Van Andel 

Institute a five-year, $1.7 million grant to establish a 

cutting-edge training program for postdoctoral fellows in 

cancer epigenetics, a growing field with untold potential 

to impact human health. 

The Cancer Epigenetics Training Program combines 

extensive professional development with comprehensive, 

interdisciplinary research training by VAI’s internationally 

recognized cadre of experts. Postdoctoral trainees 

also have access to the Institute’s state-of-the-art 

shared scientific resources and technologies as well as 

opportunities to participate in established translational 

research programs and partnerships led by VAI 

investigators. 

Epigenetic abnormalities are universally found across 

cancers and serve as major drivers for malignancy, making 

them promising new targets for the development of novel 

cancer therapies. As such, the field — and its capacity for 

producing breakthroughs — is rapidly expanding. 

“In the past few years, VAI has become a global 

destination for groundbreaking, collaborative cancer 

epigenetics research,” said VAI Chief Scientific Officer 

Dr. Peter A. Jones. “Postdoctoral trainees will emerge 

from our Cancer Epigenetics Training Program with 

extensive, rigorous training and a solid foundation from 

which to launch their independent research careers.” 

Jones and VAI Associate Professor Dr. Scott Rothbart will 

lead the program in collaboration with Dr. Erica Gobrogge, 

program director of VAI’s Office of Postdoctoral Affairs. 

The program also benefits from the guidance of its 

advisory committee, which includes renowned scientists 

from across the U.S. 

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. 

“In the past few years, 

VAI has become a 

global destination 

for groundbreaking, 

collaborative cancer 

epigenetics research.” 

Peter A. Jones, Ph.D., D.Sc. (hon) 

VAI Chief Scientific Officer 

11

Department of Structural Biology 

Scientists in the Institute’s Department of Structural 

Biology aim to understand the most basic building 

blocks of biology to inform our understanding of 

health and disease, and to aid in the development of 

new, improved medications for an array of disorders. 

Studying the foundations of life: VAI scientists 

are investigating the mechanisms that allow our DNA 

to replicate as well as the molecules at the core of 

some of our most vital systems, such as temperature 

regulation, communication between cells, and energy 

production and regulation. 

Turning weaknesses into strengths: VAI scientists 

are investigating molecular vulnerabilities in bacteria, 

such as those that cause tuberculosis and urinary tract 

infections, and in diseases, such as cancer, to find ways 

to leverage these weaknesses for treatment. 

Aiding drug discovery: By better understanding 

molecular structure and function, the work of VAI 

scientists could aid in the development of more 

targeted medications with fewer side effects. 


A ‘tasty’ protein may lead to new ways to treat metabolic and immune diseases (Dr. Wei Lü and 

Dr. Juan Du) — The same taste-sensing molecule that helps you enjoy a meal from your favorite restaurant may 

one day lead to improved ways to treat diabetes and other metabolic and immune diseases. TRPM5 is a specialized 

protein concentrated in the taste buds, where it helps relay messages to and from cells. It has long been of 

interest to researchers due to its roles in taste perception and blood sugar regulation. VAI scientists 

Dr. Wei Lü and Dr. Juan Du published the first-ever high-resolution images of TRPM5, which reveal two areas 

that may serve as targets for new medications for diseases like diabetes. The structures also may aid in the 

development of low-calorie alternative sweeteners that mimic sugar. 1 

Fighting back against the bacteria that causes tuberculosis (Dr. Huilin Li) — Tuberculosis (TB) is 

one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide, sickening 10 million people each year and claiming 1.5 million lives. 

Although treatments exist, they can have side effects and must be taken consistently over several months. 

VAI’s Dr. Huilin Li and his team are seeking out vulnerabilities in the bacteria that cause TB. They are studying the 

microbes’ Pup-proteasome system, which the bacteria use to fend off attacks by the immune system so they can 

survive inside immune cells and lie dormant for years. 

Using the Institute’s powerful cryo-electron microscope (cryo-EM), Li and his team are developing detailed 

blueprints of Pup-proteasome that can aid in the development of anti-TB medications. They also are investigating 

several compounds that disable the bacterial Pup-proteasome system while sparing the infected person’s own 

proteasome system, which plays crucial roles in health. 2,3 



1 

Van Andel Institute; the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health under award nos. R56HL144929 (Lü) and R01HL153219 (Lü); a McKnight 

Scholar Award (Du); a Klingenstein-Simons Scholar Award (Du); a Sloan Research Fellowship in neuroscience (Du); and a Pew Scholars in Biomedical Research Award from the 

Pew Charitable Trusts (Du). 

Lü also is supported by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke of the National Institutes of Health under award no. R01NS112363 and by the National 

Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health under award no. R35GM138321. Du also is supported by the National Institute of Neurological 

Disorders and Stroke of the National Institutes of Health under grant no. R01NS111031. Ruan is supported by an American Heart Association postdoctoral fellowship under 

award no. 20POST35120556. 

2 

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases of the National Institutes of Health under award nos. R01AI143714 (Lin), R21144552 (Lin) and R01AI070285 (Li); the 

Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute and Weill Cornell Medicine Matching Fund (Lin); and the Milstein Program in Translational Medicine. Kahne is supported 

in part by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease under award no. T32AI007180. 

3 

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases of the National Institutes of Health under award nos. R01AI070285 (Li) and U19AI111143 (Glickman and Nathan); and 

the National Cancer Institute under award no. P30CA008748 (Glickman). 

The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health or other granting organizations. 

12

RESEARCH 

VAI scientists recognized as highly 

cited researchers 

It’s no secret that VAI scientists are among the world’s 

best. In 2021, five of our investigators were honored with 

inclusion on the Clarivate Highly Cited Researchers List, 

a distinction marking them as leaders in their fields. 

• Peter A. Jones, Ph.D., D.Sc. (hon) 

Chief Scientific Officer 

• Patrik Brundin, M.D., Ph.D. 

Deputy Chief Scientific Officer 

• Russell Jones, Ph.D. 

Chair, Department of Metabolism and 

Nutritional Programming 

• Peter W. Laird, Ph.D. 

Professor, Department of Epigenetics 

• X. Edward Zhou, Ph.D. 

Senior Research Scientist, Li Lab, 

Department of Structural Biology 

The annual list identifies scientists from around the 

world who demonstrate significant influence in their 

area of study through the publication of multiple 

highly cited papers during the last decade. Citations, 

or references, to a scientist’s published work by other 

researchers is universally considered to be a measure of 

influence and impact in the scientific community. Only 

about 1 in 1,000 scientists in the world make this elite 

list, according to Clarivate. 

13

Department of Metabolism and Nutritional Programming 

By developing a detailed understanding of metabolism 

and how it is impacted by nutrition, genetics and 

epigenetics, VAI scientists aim to develop metabolismbased 

therapies and interventions with the ultimate 

goal of improving human health. Their areas of focus 

include: 

Understanding metabolism in health and 

designing preventative strategies: Metabolism is 

a key part of virtually every aspect of human health. 

By understanding its basic mechanics and how this 

vast system is regulated, scientists hope to develop 

strategies to maintain healthy function and prevent 

diseases caused by metabolic breakdowns. 

Determining how metabolic problems contribute 

to disease and translating these findings into 

new therapies: Some diseases, like diabetes, stem 

almost entirely from metabolic dysfunction while 

others, like cancer and Parkinson’s, are thought to be 

at least partially fueled by problems with metabolism. 

Determining how and why these problems occur will 

give scientists the insights needed to design new, more 

effective therapies for these tough-to-treat disorders. 

Investigating the impacts of nutrition and 

metabolism across generations: Can our diets 

affect our children? Or their children? If so, can 

we ensure a healthier future by mitigating what 

we eat now? These are some of the questions the 

Institute’s Department of Metabolism and Nutritional 

Programming hopes to answer. 


Study probes how diet and metabolism 

influence the immune system (Dr. Russell 

Jones) — A pair of scientists from VAI and the National 

Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases were 

granted a three-year, $1.5 million Allen Distinguished 

Investigator award as recommended by The Paul G. 

Allen Frontiers Group, a division of the Allen Institute, 

to better understand how diet and metabolism 

influence the immune system’s ability to fight off 

threats such as infections. 

By the end of the project, lead investigator Dr. Russell 

Jones of VAI and co-investigator Dr. Yasmine Belkaid 

of NIAID hope to find new therapeutic options for 

boosting protective immunity while preventing 

autoimmunity, which occurs when some immune cells 

mistakenly attack the body. 

An overactive sweet tooth may spell trouble 

for our cellular powerplants (Dr. Ning Wu) — 

Although we’ve long known that eating too much sugar 

can contribute to Type 2 diabetes and other disorders, 

the exact way this overconsumption sets the stage for 

metabolic diseases on a cellular level has remained 

elusive. But in 2021, a study led by VAI’s Dr. Ning Wu 

showed that surplus sugar may cause our cellular 

powerplants — called mitochondria — to become less 

efficient, reducing their energy output. The findings 

highlighted the cellular implications of excessive sugar 

consumption and provide an important new model to 

study the initial metabolic events that may contribute 

to diabetes development. 1 

14 


1 

Research reported in this publication was supported by Van Andel Institute; the National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health under award no. R01GM120129 (Wu); and the National Institute on Aging of the National Institutes of 

Health under award no. RF1AH061872 (Han). The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.

Translating impact from lab to clinic 

Established at Van Andel Institute in 2020, the VAI 

Cancer Center and VAI Parkinson’s Disease Center 

provide support and infrastructure for VAI scientists 

seeking to develop and implement translational 

cancer and Parkinson’s projects in Grand Rapids, 

West Michigan and beyond. 

Through clinical trials, like those supported by the 

Institute’s Focal Centers, research breakthroughs in 

the lab may become tangible treatments for those 

facing diseases like cancer and Parkinson’s. 

Cancer Center 

The VAI Cancer Center supports projects and clinical 

trials for several different types of cancer in partnership 

with organizations in the U.S. and abroad. 

Van Andel Institute-Stand Up To Cancer 

Epigenetics Dream Team 

The Institute is home to the Van Andel Institute– 

Stand Up To Cancer (VAI–SU2C) Epigenetics Dream 

Team, a multi-institutional, collaborative effort 

that brings together several of the world’s most 

respected research and clinical organizations in 

an effort to translate scientific discoveries into new 

standards of patient care. The goal is simple — get 

new and more effective cancer therapies to 

patients faster. 

Research by the numbers 

14 Trials launched 

575+ Patients 

RESEARCH 

Parkinson’s Disease Center 

The VAI Parkinson’s Disease Center supports projects 

and clinical trials that investigate potential therapies 

to slow or stop Parkinson’s progression — a feat not 

possible with existing treatments. 

International Linked Clinical Trials (iLCT) 

The Cure Parkinson’s–Van Andel Institute 

International Linked Clinical Trials (iLCT) Initiative 

identifies potential new therapies for Parkinson’s 

from medications developed to treat other 

diseases that also show potential for impeding 

Parkinson’s progression. By doing so, iLCT aims 

to significantly cut the amount of time it takes for 

a potential treatment to move from the lab to 

clinical trials and, ultimately, to the patient. 

Research by the numbers 

28 Trials launched 

3,500+ Patients 

Van Andel Institute for Research 

Ranked in 2021 by Nature 

Index as no. 24 in the Life 

Sciences category out of the 

top 100 nongovernmental/ 

nonprofits (up from 29) 

39 faculty 8 cores 

3 fellows of the 

American Association 

for the Advancement 

of Science 

2 fellows of the American 

Association for Cancer 

Research Academy 

2 members of the 

National Academy 

of Sciences 

1 member of the 

American Academy of 

Arts and Sciences 

123 peer-reviewed 

papers published 

in 2021 

15

Van Andel Institute Principal Investigators 

Van Andel Institute for Research 

is home to a team of scientists 

dedicated to improving the health 

and enhancing the lives of current 

and future generations through 

groundbreaking biomedical research. 

LEADERSHIP 


Chief Scientific Officer; Director, 

Cancer Center 

Dr. Peter A. Jones is a pioneer in 

epigenetics, a growing field that 

explores how genes are regulated 

and provides new avenues for 

developing therapies for cancer and other diseases. His 

discoveries have helped usher in an entirely new class 

of drugs that have been approved to treat blood cancer 

and are being investigated in other tumor types. Jones is 

a past president of the American Association for Cancer 

Research, a Fellow of the AACR Academy, a Fellow of the 

American Association for the Advancement of Science, 

a member of the National Academy of Sciences and a 

fellow of the American Academy of Arts & Sciences. 

Patrik Brundin, M.D., Ph.D. 

Deputy Chief Scientific Officer; 

Director, Parkinson’s Disease 

Center 

Dr. Patrik Brundin investigates 

molecular mechanisms in 

Parkinson’s disease, with the 

goal of developing new therapies aimed at slowing or 

stopping disease progression or repairing damage. 

He is one of the top-cited researchers in the field of 

neurodegenerative disease and leads international 

efforts to repurpose drugs to treat Parkinson’s. 

Scott Jewell, Ph.D. 

Director, Core Technologies and 

Services; Director, Pathology 

and Biorepository Core; 

Professor, Department of Cell 

Biology 

Dr. Scott Jewell leads VAI’s 

Core Technologies and Services, which provides 

technology and specialized expertise for research 

investigators. Services include bioinformatics and 

biostatistics, cryo-EM, optical imaging, flow cytometry, 

genomics, pathology and biorepository, metabolomics, 

vivarium management, and transgenics. Jewell is a past 

president of the International Society for Biological and 

Environmental Repositories (ISBER). 

Steven J. Triezenberg, Ph.D. 

President and Dean, Van Andel 

Institute Graduate School; 

Professor, Department of 

Epigenetics 

Dr. Steven J. Triezenberg is the 

dean of Van Andel Institute 

Graduate School. His lab, which closed in 2018 after 

31 years of productive research, explored the genetic 

and epigenetic control systems of viruses to understand 

how infections progress and to reveal new ways 

to stop them. His discoveries with herpes simplex 

viruses opened up new possibilities for antiviral drug 

development and revealed new insights into how human 

cells control gene expression. 

16

Department of 

Epigenetics 

Virtually all 37.2 trillion cells in our bodies have the 

same DNA, the spiraling molecule that contains the 

genetic instructions required to make us who we are. 

But if every cell works from the same playbook, how 

and why does the human body have so many different 

types of cells? Why do some become skin cells while 

others become muscle cells, heart cells or brain cells? 

The answer is epigenetics — a complex set of processes 

that determine when and to what extent certain genetic 

instructions are carried out. Epigenetic processes are 

vital for healthy cellular function and, when things go 

awry, they can play major roles in disease. 

By investigating the epigenetic processes that fine-tune 

DNA, Van Andel Institute scientists aim to pinpoint the 

origins of complex diseases and determine how they 

are impacted by our past and present, and how they 

influence future generations. 

J. Andrew Pospisilik, Ph.D. 

Chair and Professor 

Dr. J. Andrew Pospisilik seeks 

to understand how we become 

whom we become, and how our 

disease susceptibility is defined 

from early on in life, even before 

conception, with the long-term goal of being able to 

predict lifelong health outlook at birth. 

Stephen B. Baylin, M.D. 

Director’s Scholar; Professor 

Dr. Stephen Baylin studies the 

body’s genetic control systems — 

called epigenetics — searching for 

vulnerabilities in cancer. Baylin 

is a pioneer in this field and was 

among the first to trace epigenetic causes of cancer. His 

studies have led to new therapies for breast, lung and 

colorectal cancers, among others. He is co-leader of the 

Van Andel Institute–Stand Up To Cancer Epigenetics 

Dream Team, a Director’s Scholar at VAI and co-head of 

Cancer Biology at Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer 

Center at Johns Hopkins University. 

RESEARCH 

Nick Burton, Ph.D. 

Assistant Professor 

Dr. Nick Burton explores how 

our environment, especially 

microbes, can impact our health 

and the health of our offspring 

— even before they are born. His 

research has extensive implications for understanding 

how epigenetics contributes to human disease and how 

the environment we are exposed to today affects not 

only our own health, but also our children’s. 

Yvonne Fondufe-Mittendorf, 

Ph.D. 

Professor 

Dr. Yvonne Fondufe-Mittendorf 

investigates how environmental 

factors, such as toxicants, impact 

our genetic code and contribute 

to cancer. Her research is illuminating powerful new 

insights that could influence our understanding of 

health and disease, providing a path forward for new 

strategies for cancer prevention and treatment. 

In Memoriam 

On April 13, 2021, the world lost Dr. George Vande Woude, Van Andel Institute’s founding research director and a world-renowned scientist 

whose storied career revolutionized our understanding of cancer. His vast scientific contributions, exceptional vision and commitment to 

building world-class research programs will galvanize discovery and scientific excellence for years to come. 

George Vande Woude, Ph.D. 

Founding Research Director; 

Professor 

Among Dr. Vande Woude’s most lauded breakthroughs is the 1984 discovery of the human MET oncogene, which is now a major target 

for personalized cancer therapies. He was the first to determine the structure and enhancer function of long terminal repeats, specific 

sequences of the DNA that govern gene expression. He also was the first to show that mutations can transform normal genes to cancerpromoting 

genes, or oncogenes. These foundational discoveries — along with the findings detailed in more than 300 published, 

peer-reviewed papers — will continue to shape cancer research and treatment now and into the future. 

Over his career, Dr. Vande Woude accrued an impressive list of scientific accolades. He was elected to the National Academy of Sciences in 

1993, and the American Association for Cancer Research Academy and the American Association for the Advancement of Science in 2013. 

17


DEPARTMENT OF EPIGENETICS (CONTINUED) 

Peter W. Laird, Ph.D. 

Professor 

Dr. Peter W. Laird seeks a detailed 

understanding of the molecular 

foundations of cancer, with a 

particular focus on identifying 

crucial epigenetic alterations that 

convert otherwise healthy cells into cancer cells. He 

is an international leader in this effort and has helped 

design some of the world’s state-of-the-art tools to 

aid in epigenetics research. Laird also is a principal 

investigator for the National Cancer Institute’s Genome 

Data Analysis Network and played a leadership role in 

The Cancer Genome Atlas, a multi-institutional effort to 

molecularly map cancers. 

Gerd Pfeifer, Ph.D. 

Professor 

Dr. Gerd Pfeifer studies how 

the body switches genes on and 

off, a biological process called 

methylation that, when faulty, can 

lead to cancer or other diseases. 

His studies range from the effect 

of tobacco smoke on genetic and epigenetic systems to 

the discovery of a mechanism that may help protect the 

brain from neurodegeneration. 

Scott Rothbart, Ph.D. 

Associate Professor 

Dr. Scott Rothbart studies the 

ways in which cells pack and 

unpack DNA. This elegant process 

twists and coils roughly 2 meters 

of unwound DNA into a space less 

than one-tenth the width of a human hair. Although this 

process is impressive, it is also subject to errors that can 

cause cancer and other disorders. Rothbart seeks new 

targets for drug development in this process. 

Hui Shen, Ph.D. 


Dr. Hui Shen develops new 

approaches to cancer prevention, 

detection and treatment by 

studying the interaction between 

genes and their control systems, 

called epigenetics. Her research focuses on women’s 

cancers, particularly ovarian cancer, and has shed new 

light on the underlying mechanisms of other many 

cancer types. 

Xiaobing Shi, Ph.D. 

Professor 

Dr. Xiaobing Shi investigates the 

mechanisms that regulate DNA 

and gene expression to better 

understand how they impact 

cancer development. His research 

has led to the discovery of several new “readers” of 

epigenetic marks that may serve as targets for cancer 

treatment. 

Piroska Szabó, Ph.D. 


Dr. Piroska Szabó studies the flow 

of epigenetic information from 

parents to their offspring, with a 

focus on how epigenetic markers 

are remodeled during egg and 

sperm production, and how these markers are rewritten 

after fertilization. These processes have profound 

implications on fertility and embryo development. 

Timothy J. Triche, Jr., Ph.D. 


As a statistician and 

computational biologist with an 

interest in clonal evolution and 

cancers of the blood, the work 

of Dr. Tim Triche, Jr., focuses 

on wedding data-intensive molecular phenotyping to 

adaptive clinical trial designs in an effort to accelerate 

the pace of drug targeting and development in rare or 

refractory diseases. 

Hong Wen, Ph.D. 


Dr. Hong Wen investigates the 

molecular underpinnings of 

pediatric cancers, with a focus 

on how epigenetic dysregulation 

impacts gene expression and 

drives malignancy. Her work holds great promise 

for developing new, improved therapies for these 

devastating diseases. 

18

RESEARCH 

Department of Neurodegenerative Science 

Worldwide, between 7 million to 10 million people 

have Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological 

condition marked by tremor, rigidity and the gradual 

loss of voluntary movement, along with a host of other 

symptoms such as loss of sense of smell, cognitive issues, 

constipation, trouble sleeping and pain. Additionally, 

more than 30 million people have Alzheimer’s disease and 

related dementias. 

Currently, there is no cure and no effective way to slow or 

stop disease progression in Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. 

VAI scientists aim to change that by investigating the 

complex factors that give rise to neurodegenerative and 

psychiatric disorders, from genetics and epigenetics to 

aging, inflammation and the structure of the brain itself — 

even the role of the gut and the immune system. 

With the exception of a small number of people whose 

Parkinson’s is directly linked to family genetic inheritance, 

most cases are sporadic, meaning they have no known 

cause. A growing body of evidence suggests that genetic 

and epigenetic predisposition coupled with environmental 

factors, such as exposure to certain inflammatory agents, 

may trigger the disease, which progresses for years or 

even decades before the onset of its signature movementrelated 

symptoms. 

With an aging global population, the number of people 

with Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s is expected to significantly 

increase in the coming years, underscoring the importance 

and urgency of developing improved treatment 

strategies. By leveraging discoveries made in VAI’s labs 

and collaborating with researchers around the world, our 

scientists are working to translate breakthroughs into lifechanging 

new treatments. 

Darren Moore, Ph.D. 


Dr. Darren Moore seeks new 

diagnostic and treatment 

approaches for Parkinson’s 

by investigating the inherited 

form of the disease, which 

comprises 5% to 10% of cases. He aims to translate the 

understanding of these genetic mutations into better 

treatments and new diagnostic tools for Parkinson’s, 

both inherited and non-inherited. Discoveries from 

Moore’s lab routinely elucidate the faulty molecular 

interactions that transform healthy, functioning neurons 

into diseased ones. 

José Brás, Ph.D. 


Dr. José Brás investigates how 

variations in our genes impact 

the onset and progression of 

neurodegenerative diseases 

such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s 

and dementia with Lewy bodies. 

Using cutting-edge technologies and bioinformatic 

approaches, he has identified new genetic mutations that 

impact disease risk. 

Lena Brundin, M.D., Ph.D. 

Professor 

As a psychiatrist and a scientist, 

Dr. Lena Brundin seeks ways to 

diagnose and treat depression 

and suicidality by studying 

inflammation of the nervous 

system. Her findings may lead to earlier interventions for 

depressive patients and to development of a new class 

of antidepressants that targets the immune system. She 

also investigates how inflammatory mechanisms can 

damage nerve cells in Parkinson’s disease. 

Hong-yuan Chu, Ph.D. 


Dr. Hong-yuan Chu investigates 

how and why dopamineproducing 

cells die off in 

Parkinson’s, a process that 

underlies many of the disease’s 

hallmark symptoms. He plans to leverage this new 

knowledge to develop new, more precise ways to slow or 

stop disease progression. 

Gerhard Coetzee, Ph.D. 

Professor 

Dr. Gerhard Coetzee searches 

the human genome for minuscule 

changes that contribute to the 

onset, progression and drug 

resistance of many diseases, 

including cancer and Parkinson’s. His team deploys 

genome sequencing technologies and high-powered 

computational arrays to tease out patterns and 

interactions of markers and treatment targets from 

among the human genome’s more than three billion DNA 

base pairs. 

19


20 

DEPARTMENT OF NEURODEGENERATIVE 

SCIENCE (CONTINUED) 

Rita Guerreiro, Ph.D. 


Dr. Rita Guerreiro parses the 

genetic variations that contribute 

to neurodegenerative diseases 

such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, 

dementia with Lewy bodies and 

frontotemporal dementia. Her research has led to new 

insights into the genetic contributors to these diseases, 

which currently have no cure and no treatments that 

slow progression. 

Michael Henderson, Ph.D. 


Dr. Michael Henderson 

investigates the causes of 

neurodegenerative diseases like 

Parkinson’s and dementia with 

Lewy bodies, and the factors 

that control disease progression. He hopes to translate 

his findings into new therapies that slow or stop this 

progression. 

Qiang Zhu, Ph.D. 


Dr. Qiang Zhu investigates 

the genetic, epigenetic and 

cellular factors that lead to 

neurodegenerative diseases 

such as ALS and frontotemporal 

dementia. To date, his work has revealed the complex 

mechanisms underlying the most common genetic cause 

for both of these diseases — an insight that has provided 

novel targets for the development of new therapies. 

Department of 

Cell Biology 

Our health, and consequently our lives, depend on the 

coordinated activities of our individual cells; diseases 

arise when the activities of these individual cells become 

derailed. Through combined expertise in different cell 

types and communication mechanisms and using stateof-the-art 

approaches, scientists in VAI’s Department of 

Cell Biology pursue fundamental research to understand 

how our cells grow, communicate, survive, assemble into 

tissues and organs, respond to the environment, and 

change with age. This transformative work will yield new 

diagnostic and treatment strategies to improve the quality 

of life for people with cancer, bone diseases and rare 

disorders. 

Tao Yang, Ph.D. 

Interim Chair and Associate 

Professor 

Dr. Tao Yang studies the signaling 

systems that govern skeletal stem 

cells and the role they play in 

diseases such as osteoarthritis 

and osteoporosis. Bones are the largest producer of 

adult stem cells, which mature into cartilage, fat or bone 

tissue — a process that falters with age. Yang seeks a 

better understanding of these systems in search of new 

treatments for degenerative bone disorders and other 

skeletal aging. 

Stephanie Grainger, Ph.D. 


Stem cells give rise to every cell 

type in the human body and play 

important roles in health and 

disease. Dr. Stephanie Grainger 

seeks to understand how these 

special cells develop, how they are maintained, and how 

they can become cancerous, with the goal of developing 

new strategies for combating cancer.

RESEARCH 

Brian Haab, Ph.D. 

Professor; Associate Dean, 

VAI Graduate School 

Dr. Brian Haab searches for new 

ways to diagnose and stratify 

pancreatic cancers based on the 

chemical fingerprints tumors 

leave behind. Part of the problem Dr. Haab aims to solve 

is that cancers often look and behave normally — until 

after they’ve started making people sick. Dr. Haab is 

sleuthing out clues to build a library of diagnostic tools 

that will help providers diagnose tumors earlier and 

optimize treatment. 

Stefan Jovinge, M.D., Ph.D. 

Professor, VAI; Director, DeVos 

Cardiovascular Research 

Program (a joint effort between 

VAI and Spectrum Health); 

Medical Director of Research, 

Frederik Meijer Heart and 

Vascular Institute, Spectrum Health 

Dr. Stefan Jovinge develops ways to help the heart heal 

itself and has led dozens of clinical trials in regenerative 

medicine. As a critical care cardiologist and scientist, 

he uses a bench-to-bedside approach in an effort to 

give patients with serious heart conditions longer, 

healthier lives. 

Matt Steensma, M.D. 


Dr. Matt Steensma studies the 

genetic and molecular factors 

that cause benign tumors to 

become cancers, in search 

of vulnerabilities that may 

be targeted for treatment. As a scientist at VAI and 

practicing surgeon at Spectrum Health Helen DeVos 

Children’s Hospital, he is committed to translating 

scientific discoveries into treatments that improve 

patients’ lives. 

Bart Williams, Ph.D. 

Professor 

Dr. Bart Williams studies the 

building blocks of bone growth 

on behalf of the millions 

suffering from diseases such as 

osteoporosis. He seeks new ways 

of altering cell signaling pathways to encourage healthy 

bone development and deter cancer spread to the 

skeleton. 

FEDERAL AND 

FOUNDATIONAL 

FUNDING IN 2021 

Awards breakdown 

Total of active 

awards (all): 

$139.5 million 

Total of active 

awards (all): 

92 

Total new 

awards 2021: 

33 

21


Department of 

Structural Biology 

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. 

Determining the shape of these critical molecules is 

vital for understanding their function in health and 

disease. Scientists in Van Andel Institute’s Department of 

Structural Biology harness cryo-EM and other state-ofthe-art 

techniques to visualize molecules that may serve 

as treatment targets for cancer, neurological disorders, 

metabolic diseases, infectious diseases and more. 

They’re revealing 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. And they’re 

laying the foundations for new therapies by revealing how 

a drug molecule disables its target protein. 

Huilin Li, Ph.D. 

Chair and Professor; Director, 

Cryo-EM Core 

Dr. Huilin Li uses cryo-electron 

microscopy (cryo-EM) to reveal 

the most basic building blocks 

of DNA replication and other 

systems vital for life. He has been at the vanguard of 

cryo-EM for more than 20 years, and his research has 

implications for some of the world’s most critical public 

health concerns, including tuberculosis, cancer, mental 

illness, and many more. 

Juan Du, Ph.D. 


Dr. Juan Du seeks to 

understand the brain’s intricate 

communication systems using 

state-of-the-art structural 

biology approaches, such as cryo- 

EM. Her work has revealed new insights into critical 

processes such as temperature regulation in the human 

body, which has implications for development of new 

medications for neurological disorders. 

Wei Lü, Ph.D. 


Dr. Wei Lü is working to unravel 

how brain cells communicate 

with each other. Using techniques 

such as cryo-EM, his work 

has contributed to the field’s 

understanding of molecules that play crucial roles in the 

development and function of the nervous system. 

Evan Worden, Ph.D. 


Dr. Evan Worden leverages VAI’s 

powerful suite of cryo-electron 

microscopes to explore the 

complex molecular interactions 

that give rise to cancer. To date, 

his research has revealed novel insights into poorly 

understood regulatory elements in the genetic code 

and illuminated how aberrations in these processes can 

transform healthy cells into malignant ones. 

22

RESEARCH 

Department 

of Metabolism 

and Nutritional 

Programming 

For the human body to function properly, it must have the 

right amount of energy and resources in the right place at 

the right time. Every aspect of life is fueled by metabolism, 

a constant cascade of chemical reactions that ensure we 

have the energy to survive and thrive. But sometimes 

things go wrong, depriving our cells of the energy and 

resources required for healthy function. 

When energy production or distribution breaks down, the 

results can be catastrophic — diseases such as cancer, 

Parkinson’s and diabetes are all known to have varying 

degrees of metabolic involvement. 

Scientists in Van Andel Institute’s Department of 

Metabolism and Nutritional Programming explore the 

intricate mechanics of cellular metabolism and their 

implications for health and in disease. Using cuttingedge 

techniques, they are investigating metabolism’s 

interaction with other critical systems, such as the immune 

system, and revealing how environmental exposures and 

metabolic dysfunction contribute to diseases such as 

diabetes, autoimmunity, cancer and neurodegeneration. 

Our scientists are also parsing the ripple effect that 

nutrition may have through the generations, exploring 

how our diets could lay the epigenetic foundations for the 

health of our descendants. 

Russell Jones, Ph.D. 


Dr. Russell Jones investigates 

metabolism at the cellular level 

to understand how it affects 

cell behavior and health, with 

a specific eye on cancer and 

the immune system. By revealing how cancer cells use 

metabolic processes to fuel their growth and spread, he 

hopes to develop new treatments that help patients by 

changing the standard of care for cancer. 

Connie Krawczyk, Ph.D. 


Dr. Connie Krawczyk investigates 

the links between metabolism, 

epigenetics and the immune 

system, with the goal of 

understanding how they work 

together to keep us healthy and, when things go wrong, 

to promote disease. 

Adelheid Lempradl, Ph.D. 


Dr. Adelheid Lempradl is 

investigating how the dietary 

choices of parents may impact 

the health of their offspring 

in the hopes of translating her 

findings into new ways to prevent disease and create a 

healthier future. 

Sara Nowinski, Ph.D. 


Dr. Sara Nowinski investigates 

how cells determine the amount 

of energy needed for everyday 

life and how they adjust to meet 

those requirements. Her research 

has uncovered new insights into the intricate balance 

between nutrient availability and cellular respiration — 

both critical components to maintaining health. 

Ning Wu, Ph.D. 


Dr. Ning Wu investigates the 

interface between cellular 

metabolism and cellular 

signaling, particularly as 

they relate to cancer. On the 

most basic level, cancer is fundamentally a disease 

of uncontrolled cell growth, and Dr. Wu believes 

that understanding a tumor’s voracious energy 

requirements and altered signaling pathways will lead 

to new treatments that optimize existing combination 

therapies and identify novel therapeutic targets. 

23

Van Andel Institute Graduate School 

Van Andel Institute Graduate School prepares students for outstanding careers 

as independent scientists who are not only experts in their area of study, but 

also in the business of science. 

Our students receive a rigorous educational foundation and intense training 

in cutting-edge techniques and approaches that prepare them to tackle some 

of science’s biggest questions. By the end of their studies at the Institute, 

students graduate not only with a Ph.D. in molecular and cellular biology, but 

also with the tools required to build a strong career as a biomedical scientist 

and research leader. 

Using an innovative, problem-based learning approach, graduate students 

learn to conduct high-caliber science focused on understanding the 

underpinnings of human disease, as well as prevention, detection and 

treatment — blending discovery with invention and insight with application. 

In spring 2021, the Graduate School moved into its new home at 234 N Division 

Ave., directly across from the Institute’s main building 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. 

24 

VAI GRADUATE SCHOOL STUDENTS GATHER IN 

THE NEW GRADUATE SCHOOL BUILDING


Thirteen new students joined the Graduate School as part of the fall 

2021 cohort — our largest cohort to date. As of September 2021, 44 students 

were enrolled in our Ph.D. program. The student body included 28 women (64%), 

13 international students (30%), two students from populations underrepresented 

in the biomedical workforce by National Institutes of Health standards, and four 

students enrolled in dual-degree (M.D.-Ph.D.) programs. The Graduate School set a 

goal of 15 new students for the incoming fall 2022 cohort. 

To date, 34 students have graduated from the Graduate School — 

30 Ph.D. and four M.S. Of the 30 Ph.D. graduates, about 70% have gone to 

postdoctoral or research associate positions, and 20% have taken positions in 

industry. 

In fall 2021, the Graduate School implemented a significantly 

restructured core curriculum for first-year students. The curriculum 

retains the problem-based learning approach, supplemented with courses focused 

on experimental design and biostatistics, data analysis and bioinformatics, scientific 

communication, and experimental skills. 

RESEARCH 

Taylor Boyd joined Graduate School leadership. The Institute’s commitment 

to training the scientific leaders of tomorrow leapt forward in October 2021 with the 

hire of Taylor Boyd as director of assessment and professional development. Boyd, 

who previously served in the Office of the Provost at Grand Valley State University, 

is responsible for assessing the Graduate School’s curriculum and co-curricular 

activities. He also assists VAI faculty in enhancing their teaching and mentoring 

skills and is monitoring the progress of student learning, while also leading efforts to 

sustain the Graduate School’s accreditation. 

The 2021 Origins of Cancer symposium probed the intersection 

of cancer and neuroscience, an area that holds great promise for better 

understanding the complex biological interactions that give rise to disease. Students 

and scientists joined together for the virtual conference, held in July, to discuss how 

the future of cancer research may combine two discrete areas of study by exploring 

the common threads that unite them. This annual event, organized and hosted by 

VAI Graduate School students, serves as a shining example of collaboration — a value 

that is at the heart of VAI’s ethos. 

Graduate School students and alumni contributed 24 authorships on 17 research 

publications in 2020, and 12 authorships on 11 publications in 2021. 

Applicant Pool 

Academic Year 2019 2020 2021 

Applicants 68 82 110 

Admits 23 25 16 

Admit Rate 34% 30% 15% 

Number of Graduate 

School student 

applications, by year: 

2021 — 110 

2020 — 82 

2019 — 68 

25

An innovative approach to graduate education 

Fall 2021 Cohort 

6 Domestic 7 International 

Ph.D. Career Outcomes by Career Type 

Not related to science 5% 

(current position, numbers current as of Sept. 1, 2021) 

Further training or education 

29% 

5.5 Median years to Ph.D. 

Primarily teaching 

Science related 

5% 

10% 

70% Completion rate for Ph.D. 

Primarily research 

52% 

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 

76% Completion rate for M.S. and Ph.D. 

Ph.D. Career Outcomes by Job Sector 

(current position, numbers current as of Sept. 1, 2021) 

For-profit 

19% 

Nonprofit 

10% 

Academia 

71% 

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 

26 

(STARTING AT LEFT) VAI GRADUATE SCHOOL STUDENTS GATHER IN COMMUNAL SPACE; 

NEW VAI GRADUATE SCHOOL BUILDING ON DIVISION AVE.

RESEARCH 

27

VAN ANDEL 

VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE 

INSTITUTE FOR 

EDUCATION 

WE BELIEVE THAT HOPE FOR TOMORROW LIVES 

IN THE STUDENTS OF TODAY. OUR INQUIRY-BASED 

APPROACHES FOR K–12 EDUCATION HELP CREATE 

CLASSROOMS WHERE CURIOSITY, CREATIVITY AND 

CRITICAL THINKING THRIVE.

Creating classrooms where curiosity, creativity 

and critical thinking thrive 

Van Andel Institute for Education is dedicated to 

creating classrooms where curiosity, creativity 

and critical thinking thrive. Our educators develop 

inquiry-based approaches for K–12 education to help 

students and teachers prepare the next generation of 

problem-solvers. 

VAI for Education offers engaging programs for 

students, as well as transformative professional 

development and instructional tools for teachers. 

Our team is committed to promoting a high-quality 

education for all children. 

Through our programs, students engage in authentic 

learning experiences and inquiry-based education, 

during which they solve real-world problems. Our 

educators work diligently to make the classroom a 

place where both students and teachers want to be. 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 

Flex PD: VAI’s popular Flex PD is a comprehensive, 

affordable professional development model that 

promotes tangible shifts in instruction for teachers 

and administrators. Our plans are customizable to fit 

educators’ individual needs, and include immersive 

workshops, learning sessions and coaching. 

Science on the Grand: Science on the Grand: A 

STEAM Conference for Inquiry-based Educators brings 

teachers and administrators to the Institute for two 

days of professional development breakout sessions. 

The conference is designed to provide research-based 

and classroom-tested content that supports educators. 

After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, Science 

on the Grand returns in summer 2022. 

INSTRUCTIONAL TOOLS 

Blue Apple TM : Blue Apple project-based learning units 

launched in 2019. These ready-made lessons for K–8 

teachers bring project-based learning to life in the 

classroom. 

Project-based learning is a proven educational model 

that applies a problem-focused, multidisciplinary 

approach to learning. One project can develop 

students’ skills in science, math, English language 

arts and social studies, as well as skills like social and 

emotional learning. 

Each Blue Apple project includes engaging lessons 

designed to make learning memorable, meaningful and 

fun. Educators are provided with supplies, access to a 

Project Coach (to ask questions and share ideas), links 

to online resources and the opportunity to connect 

with other classrooms doing the same projects. 

Example projects include “Prevent the Spread,” “What’s 

In Your Water?” and “High Energy.” 

Blue Apple Timely Topics: In addition to the main 

catalog of Blue Apple projects, VAI rolled out a series 

of free, 15-minute mini-lessons called Timely Topics. 

These lessons are designed to help teachers bring 

relevant content to the classroom. 

In 2021, topics included “Celebrating Black History 

Month,” “Respectful Debate” and “Spooktacular 

STEAM.” 

NexGen Inquiry Quests: New for 2021, NexGen Inquiry 

Quests are story-driven video lessons that capture 

student interest by introducing them to real-world 

problems they can solve with hands-on, scientific 

investigations. 

Each Quest includes three inquiry-based investigations 

that help students exercise critical and creative 

thinking, collaboration with peers, and the application 

of solutions that will make the world a better place. 

In one Quest, students play the role of an electrical 

engineer who is troubleshooting a power outage. 

In another, students learn “crime scene” forensics 

to locate a reptile that’s gone “missing” from VAI’s 

classrooms. 

30 

(AT LEFT & RIGHT) STUDENTS WORKING TOGETHER AT 

VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE FOR EDUCATION

EDUCATION 

Transforming instruction for 140,000+ students 

in 50 states and 33 countries 

Professional development services 

provided to 1,673 educators 

Inquiry-based learning experiences 

provided to 1,566 students 

8,000+ educator subscribers 

receive instructional resources monthly 

31

Creating classrooms where curiosity, creativity 

and critical thinking thrive (continued) 

FIELD TRIPS & MORE 

Classroom Field Trips: As each school year begins, 

Education offers more than two dozen field trip 

experiences for students and teachers. 

The Institute was thrilled to welcome students and 

teachers back to educational labs in-person in fall 

2021, with appropriate safety measures in place. Topics 

include “Uncovering Our Past,” “Robots and Coding: 

The Basics” and “Engineering Design Challenge: 

Showering on Mars.” 

Curiosity on Wheels: VAI’s Curiosity on Wheels brings 

hands-on, inquiry-based STEM opportunities to all 

schools. Whether the schools are in a rural area or 

local, VAI’s team will come to them and bring the 

science, the materials, and the opportunity to create a 

memorable, educational experience. 

This program, designed for a minimum of 30 students, 

is ideal for science across the grades during the school 

day or for a lively afterschool event for students and 

their families. A variety of investigation stations are set 

up and customized for participants, and include topics 

such as “Power Up!”, “Amazing Animals,” “Seismic Shake 

Up,” and more. 

High School Journal Club: High School Journal Club 

is a process for scientific discourse that provides 

participants with the opportunity to hone scientific 

research and communication skills while reviewing 

current research. 

It brings Grand Rapids students, their teachers and VAI 

scientists together in a forum for scientific discourse. 

Emulating the practice of VAI scientists, participants 

learn to collaborate and read, analyze, present, and 

discuss scientific journal articles in a format that is 

easily applied in the classroom. 

FOR FAMILIES 

Summer Camps: In 2021, Education hosted 10 summer 

camps, including five new ones. All were sold out, with 

240 students participating. Eight of the camps were 

geared toward elementary and middle school students, 

with two for high school students. Summer camp 

learning experiences included “Hogwarts in Grand 

Rapids,” “Can You Dig It?” and “Mission to Mars.” 

Afterschool Cohort: Afterschool Cohort inspires 

groups of students to think and act like scientists 

and engineers over the course of one semester. 

Through hands-on investigations in two categories — 

biodiversity, and human health and human innovation 

— students ask questions, investigate hypotheses and 

discover answers using scientific tools and resources. 

There is no cost to participate in this program; tuition 

is underwritten by VAI. 


VAI offers free project to educate students on 

vaccinations — As teachers continue to press forward 

through the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important that we 

equip our students with the knowledge and resources 

they need to stay informed. To that end, Van Andel 

Institute for Education launched VacciNation — a virtual 

Blue Apple project designed to teach students about the 

science and history of vaccines. 

VacciNation comprises five unique, inquiry-based 

lessons for teachers to utilize. Through a series of 

engaging activities that include captivating games, 

students are given a crash course on vaccines that will 

stretch their curiosity and critical thinking skills. 

VAI for Education serves more than 3,200 

students and educators — During the 2020–2021 

school year, VAI for Education served 1,566 students 

and 1,673 educators — the latter a 27% increase over the 

prior year. 

VAI for Education takes on the challenge of 

learning loss — To combat learning loss, VAI hosted 

several networking events for K–12 administrators 

to help address concerns related to the pandemic. 

More than 350 administrators from 20 states and two 

continents registered for Better Together events, and 

these events and high participation helped support 

the creation of “Beyond Learning Loss: 2020–2021 

Education Recovery Plan,” a comprehensive suite of VAI 

services that help schools accelerate learning. 

All resources mentioned here can be found at vaei.org. 

32 

(AT RIGHT) STUDENTS LEARN TO COLLABORATE & THINK CREATIVELY & CRITICALLY 

THANKS TO PROJECTS FROM VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE FOR EDUCATION

EDUCATION 

33

EVENTS & 

EVENTS PHILANTHROPY AND EVENTS & 

VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE DONORS AND PHILANTHROPIC PARTNERS ARE CONNECTED 

BY A SHARED SENSE OF COMMITMENT TO THE INSTITUTE’S MISSION. THEIR 

CREATIVITY, PASSION AND DEDICATION SUPPORT VAI’S POSITION AS A THRIVING 

CENTER FOR BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH AND K–12 AND GRADUATE EDUCATION. 

THE INSTITUTE’S SIGNATURE VAI PURPLE COMMUNITY EVENTS SERVE AS 

IMPORTANT CATALYSTS FOR SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION WHILE BRINGING TOGETHER 

COMMUNITY MEMBERS IN SUPPORT OF INITIATIVES THAT BRING FORTH HOPE FOR A 

HEALTHIER FUTURE.

Design & Discovery 

All events followed health and safety protocols related to the 

COVID-19 pandemic in place at the time of occurrence. 

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. 

Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors, 

Haworth and Leigh’s. 

(STARTING AT THE TOP LEFT, 

GOING CLOCKWISE) REBECCA 

WIERDA & CAROL VAN ANDEL; 

JEFF CAULEY & LAUREN 

MENDELSON; MODELS ON THE 

RUNWAY; INAUGURAL DESIGN & 

DISCOVERY HELD AT HAWORTH 

HEADQUARTERS & SHOWROOM 

36

JBoard Mixer 

EVENTS 

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 — like this 

one, held in summer 2021 — throughout 

the year, where they can hear about 

the latest research and educational 

innovations at VAI straight from those 

who are making it happen. 

JBOARD CO-CHAIR RACHEL MRAZ 

(RIGHT) & ASHLEIGH ALBERT; 

RACHEL MRAZ & CHAD BASSETT 

WELCOME GUESTS TO THE MIXER; 

2021 JBOARD MIXER HELD AT THE 

HOME OF RACHEL & MIKE MRAZ 

37

VAI Golf Outing 

In September 2021, golfers gathered at 

the majestic Wuskowhan Players Club 

in West Olive, Michigan, for the 14th 

annual VAI Golf Outing. The 2021 event 

featured a scramble tournament, lunch, 

dinner and a brief award presentation. 

For nearly 15 years, the VAI Golf Outing 

has brought the golf community of 

West Michigan together in support of 

the Institute’s biomedical research and 

educational programs. 

Thank you to our Title Sponsor, the 

Veldheer, Long, Mackay & Bernecker 

Group of Merrill Lynch. 


GOING CLOCKWISE) RYAN 

FORMSMA, ERIC HELZER, 

CHRISTOPHER STRALKOWSKI 

& STAN ELENBAAS; CAROL 

VAN ANDEL; ANN CALLAHAN & 

SHAWN PREMER; 

DAVID VAN ANDEL 

KICKS OFF THE DAY 

38

Couture for a Cure 

EVENTS 

Back live and in action, Couture for a Cure 

brought glitz, glam and generosity 

together at the Institute for a 16th year. 

The event featured a New York-style 

runway show by Leigh’s and highlighted 

the fall 2021 collection of designer 

Veronica Beard. Co-founders of the 

eponymous brand — Veronica Miele Beard 

and Veronica Swanson Beard — shared a 

special virtual message with the evening’s 

guests, who also enjoyed a seated dinner, 

table service and fabulous musical stylings 

from AB. Guests also learned more about 

VAI’s work into ovarian cancer research. 

New products and on-trend looks from 

Artistry appeared on the runway, and 

all guests took home swag bags of 

exclusive gifts, treats and Artistry TM 

products. 

Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, 

Leigh’s, and our Title Sponsor, Amway. 

(STARTING AT THE TOP LEFT, GOING 

CLOCKWISE) CAROL VAN ANDEL; 

MODEL SHOWING OFF ONE OF THE 

NIGHT’S CHIC LOOKS; SCOTT & 

REBECCA WIERDA WITH 

DAVID & CAROL VAN ANDEL; 

MODEL WALKING THE RUNWAY 

39

Hope on the Hill Gala — Mission: Made Possible 

As the culminating event of our 25th 

anniversary, the 21st annual Hope on the 

Hill Gala marked a quarter century of 

progress at the Institute with a night of 

glamour, mystery and support of VAI’s 

mission. Guests broke out their best 

black-tie attire to celebrate those who, 

for the past 25 years, have helped make 

great strides at the Institute: our donors, 

our community, and the scientists and 

educators they support. The event 

included a seated dinner of delectable 

cuisine and artisan cocktails, live 

entertainment from AB and world-class 

electroviolinist Svet, and presentations 

from Institute leaders on VAI’s history, 

breakthroughs and dreams for the 

future. 

Thank you to our Title Sponsor, Fifth 

Third Private Bank. 

40

EVENTS 

(STARTING AT THE FAR LEFT, GOING CLOCKWISE) 

DAVID & CAROL VAN ANDEL; JAKE KENNARD & KATE 

ZWIERS WITH NICOLE & DAVID ZWIERS; SVET; 

SENATOR MARK HUIZENGA & KRIS HUIZENGA, 

BILL & MARY JACKSON, RUSTY & JENN MERCHANT 

& MAUREEN WATSON-BOLGER & MATT BOLGER; 

PABLO & JENNA PRIETO WITH TANYA & CHARLIE 

ROWERDINK; DAVID VAN ANDEL; 

ENTRYWAY TO THE EVENT; DJ AB 

41

A Conversation About Pancreatic Cancer 

Hosted By Carol Van Andel 

Despite incredible advances in cancer 

detection and treatment, pancreatic 

cancer continues to pose a particular 

challenge to physicians and patients 

because it often lacks obvious early 

symptoms. By the time the disease is 

found, it is typically quite advanced, 

complicating treatment and leading to 

poorer patient outcomes. 

But thanks to new breakthroughs, 

there is hope. In November, guests at A 

Conversation About Pancreatic Cancer — 

Hosted by Carol Van Andel learned about 

the latest advances in pancreatic cancer 

research, with a focus on promising 

opportunities for early detection. 

Speakers included pancreatic cancer 

experts Dr. Brian Haab, a VAI professor 

whose lab is at the forefront of new 

diagnostic efforts, and Dr. J. Bradley 

Morrow, director of endoscopy at Mercy 

Health St. Mary’s. For the past five years, 

Drs. Haab and Morrow have collaborated 

on developing new diagnostics for 

pancreatic cancer. 


The Howard Miller Company. 


GOING CLOCKWISE) CAROL VAN ANDEL; 

GUESTS HEAR FROM MARANDA; 

DR. J. BRADLEY MORROW; 

DR. J. BRADLEY MORROW & MARANDA 

42

Gaming for Hope 

EVENTS 

In 2021, VAI hosted our inaugural 

Gaming for Hope, a fully online, 

24-hour gaming marathon that 

blended a passion for online gaming 

and streaming with raising funds to 

support the Institute’s work. Streamers 

of all ages and experience levels played 

numerous games over the course of 

the day, including single-player FIFA 21, 

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, League of 

Legends, and Counter-Strike: Global 

Offensive. Featured streamers joined 

in on the action, and giveaways and 

prizes were up for grabs for those who 

fundraised for the Institute. 


Element Four. 

(STARTING AT THE TOP LEFT, GOING 

CLOCKWISE) MIKE “POROSAURUS” 

NAVARRO; MAE LEXI ZURITA; 

COLIN GRAHAM (RIGHT) WITH 

DAVENPORT ESPORTS INTERN 

43

Signature special event sponsors 

We are grateful to have extraordinarily dedicated signature event sponsors. Thank you for partnering with us and supporting 

our mission throughout the year. 

Advantage Commercial Real Estate 

Alpine Events 

Al & Robin Koop Foundation 

Amway 

Andy J. Egan Company 

Aon 

Applied Imaging 

Aquinas College 

Rob & Dawn Arnoys 

AssurancePlus 

Autocam Medical 

James & Shirley Balk 

Steven & Amanda Barbour 

John & Ginny Baysore 

Jeff & Meg Bennett 

Betz Industries 

BHS Insurance 

Franco & Alessandra Bianchi 

Dave & Jill Bielema 

Bluewater Technologies 

Chuck & Christine Boelkins 

Robert & Sandra Borsos 

Bouma Corporation 

The Brooks Family 

Buist Electric 

Byrne Electrical Specialists 

Caledonia Dental Group 

Jerry & Suzanne Callahan 

Cancer & Hematology Centers of 

Western Michigan, P.C. 

Cascade Engineering 

Cauley Ferrari of Detroit 

Cheeky Strut 

Consumers Credit Union 

Ryan & Jessica Cook 

Cornerstone University 

Cottage Home 

Crowe LLP 

Mimi Cummings 

Tom & Tracy Curran 

The Currie Foundation 

Custer Inc. 

CWD Real Estate Investment 

Czech Asset Management 

Randy Damstra & Julie Duisterhof 

Davenport University 

David & Carol Van Andel Family 

Foundation 

Deloitte 

Dominique & Julie DeNooyer 

Mike & Jean Dery 

Dick & Betsy DeVos Family Foundation 

The Douglas & Maria DeVos Foundation 

Brian DeVries & Barbara Pugh 

Dunn & Laug Wealth Management at 

Morgan Stanley 

Edge Natural Resources 

Eenhoorn 

Eileen DeVries Family Foundation 

Mike & Barb Ellis 

Pete & LeAnn Engles 

Erhardt Construction 

Ernst & Young 

Eurest 

EV Construction 

Fifth Third Private Bank 

First National Bank of Michigan 

Gallagher 

Geerlings Development Company/ 

Midwest Construction Group 

Grand Rapids Christian Schools 

Grand Valley State University 

Greenridge Realty, Inc. 

Martin & Peggy Greydanus 

Jana Hall 

Jeff & Ann Harten 

Kurt & Madelon Hassberger 

Paul & Sheryl Haverkate 

Matthew & Jennifer Haworth 

HB Wealth Management 

The Hilldore Group — Baird 

Hines Corporation 

Holland Hospital 

Hope College 

Howard Miller Company 

Heidi Huizenga 

J.C. & Tammy Huizenga 

Huizenga Group 

Ben & Molly Hunting 

Bill & Starr Humphries 

ICN Foundation 

Inontime 

James Group 

Jandernoa Foundation 

Jeffery Roberts Design 

John Hancock Financial Services 

Matt & Sarah Jones 

Dr. Peter & Veronica Jones 

Craig & Debra Kinney 

Kool Auto Group 

Blake & Mary Krueger 

John & Katie Kuiper 

Kyle Geenen Group 

Lake Michigan Credit Union 

Al & Linda Lanning 

Ray & Jeannine Lanning 

Leigh’s 

Loomis, Sayles & Company, L.P. 

Gary & Vicky Ludema 

Dr. Jurgen & Becky Luders 

Macatawa Bank 

McAlvey Merchant & Associates 

McShane & Bowie PLC 

Meijer 

The Meijer Foundation 

Mercy Health 

Merrill Lynch — The Veldheer, Long, 

Mackay & Bernecker Group 

Michigan Homes & Cottages 

Michigan State University College of 

Human Medicine 

Midwest Capital Advisors 

Mike Schaap Builders, Inc. 

Bill & Pat Mills 

44

EVENTS 

MMS Education 

Mike & Rachel Mraz 

Mike & Sally Murdock 

Paul & Anne Nemschoff 

New Holland Brewing Co. 

Nicolai North America 

Northern Jet Management 

NPF Investment Advisors 

Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. 

Padnos 

Pageworks 

Peter C. & Emajean Cook Foundation 

The Peter F. Secchia Family 

Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services 

P.L. Capital 

Lee & Alexandra Perez 

Pioneer Construction 

Pitsch Companies 

Plastic Surgery Associates, PC 

Priority Health 

Progressive AE 

Quality Air Service 

Red Glasses Movement 

Rockford Construction 

Eve Rogus & Paul Becker 

Lisa M. Rose & Dr. Ken Hoffman 

Rowerdink Inc. 

John & Therese Rowerdink 

Marc & Jeanne Schupan 

Secrest Wardle 

Tony & Dawn Semple 

SeyferthPR 

Sharpe 

SIBSCO 

Spectrum Health 

David & Linda Spencer 

Craig & Wendy Spoelhof 

John & Judy Spoelhof 

Scott & Jan Spoelhof 

Rob & Susan Stafford 

Standard Lumber 

Steelcase Inc. 

Stephen Klotz Family Foundation 

The Steve & Amy Van Andel Foundation 

Kathleen Steward Ponitz 

Thomas & Mary Stuit 

Summit Point Roofing 

Taconic 

Kenneth & Nancy Teutsch 

Thomas S. Fox Family 

Truscott Rossman 

University of Michigan Health-West 

US Signal 

Brian & Lori Vander Baan 

Mike & Michelle Van Dyke 

Dan & Ann Van Eerden 

Dave & Beth VanPortfliet 

Christian & Kara VerMeulen 

Visbeen Architects Inc. 

Russ & Chris Visner 

Warner Norcross + Judd LLP 

Wells Fargo 

West Michigan Woman 

Geoff & LeeAnne Widlak 

Williams Kitchen & Bath 

Bart & Wendy Williams 

Greg & Meg Willit 

Wolverine Worldwide 

Woodways International 

YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids 

Zip Xpress, Inc. 

Jim & Jane Zwiers 

Thank you to all donors and guests 

who supported us through our virtual 

events in 2021, including: 

• Winterfest Celebration 

• VAI Forum on Depression & 

Inflammation 

• Carol Van Andel Angel of 

Excellence Virtual Dinner & Award 

Presentation 

• Grand Rapids Griffins VAI Purple 

Community Game 

• Board of Governors Annual Dinner 

• Around the World 

• VAI Virtual Public Lecture Series 

• Virtual Coffee Connection Events 

While we wish we could have seen 

more of you in person in 2021, we 

are so happy you were able to join us 

in some capacity to celebrate VAI’s 

research and education efforts from 

the last year — and the last quarter 

century. 

45

The Howard Miller Company: 

Community support with global impact 

When the Miller family learned that Jay and Betty 

Van Andel planned to establish a biomedical research 

and science education facility in Grand Rapids, they 

immediately saw the potential for it to have a global 

impact on human health. 

“My father, Jack H. Miller, knew and respected Jay and 

Betty,” recalled Howard “Buzz” Miller, chairman and 

CEO of the Zeeland-based Howard Miller Company, 

which specializes in heirloom clocks, cabinets and a 

variety of furnishings. “He believed in their vision 

for Van Andel Institute, and our company quickly 

re-directed our philanthropic donations from an 

out-of-state research facility to the Institute.” 

Twenty-five years later, the Howard Miller Company 

and the Miller family continue to be among VAI’s most 

ardent supporters. Their annual gifts help the Institute 

fulfill its mission of enhancing the lives of current and 

future generations through inspired science education 

and innovative research programs into diseases like 

cancer and Parkinson’s. 

(ABOVE, LEFT TO RIGHT) JACK H. MILLER & HOWARD “BUZZ” MILLER 

“Part of our company’s legacy is how we share our 

resources with others. We’re both humbled and proud to 

help Van Andel Institute continue to make its mark on 

our world.” Howard “Buzz” Miller 

Howard Miller Company’s values are deeply aligned 

with VAI’s. Both share a passion for community, so it 

was a natural fit for the company to support publicfacing 

events that help community members learn 

more about the work happening in VAI’s labs and 

classrooms. 

“Not every research facility opens its doors and 

allows audiences to get up-close and personal with 

its scientists and educators,” Miller said, noting that 

this chance to learn first-hand about VAI’s work allows 

people to learn and grow personally, and brings a layer 

of transparency to the research process. 

46

PHILANTHROPY 

“I know my father is gratified to see the progress made 

not only at VAI, but also along the entire Medical Mile,” 

Miller said. “Grand Rapids has a great deal to be proud 

of, and the Institute’s research has far-reaching, global 

impact. For those of us who are always seeking ways 

to make a change, that’s the best of both worlds — to 

make a difference in West Michigan, and at the same 

time, to create dynamic changes across the world in 

the battle against disease.” 

Pillars of the community, the Howard Miller Company 

and the Miller family have a long history of giving back. 

We are grateful they have been at our side over the last 

quarter-century, helping us transform lives through 

discovery and provide hope for a healthier future. 

47

Blake Crabb: Meet the newest JBoard Ambassadors co-chair 

Van Andel Institute’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 hear about the latest research and educational innovations at VAI, 

straight from those who are making it happen. 

In 2021, VAI’s JBoard welcomed Blake Crabb as co-chair. Crabb is manager of field sales 

training — oncology at Amgen, and serves alongside long-time co-chair Rachel Mraz in 

providing leadership to the JBoard. 

Let’s get to know our newest JBoard co-chair: 

How did you first become involved with Van Andel Institute? 

In 2012, my mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. A friend invited me to an event 

where I learned about the research being conducted at VAI. It was at this event that I met 

my friend — and now my fellow JBoard Co-Chair — Rachel Mraz. 

What influenced your decision to become a member of the VAI JBoard? 

I appreciated the tangible ability to make a difference and knowing my involvement 

would help raise awareness and funds for research that I believe in my heart will lead us 

to life-changing treatments. 

What do you hope to accomplish as a JBoard co-chair? 

I have many goals I would like to accomplish as co-chair. Most importantly, though, is 

expansion. Expanding our membership will allow us to increase awareness of the work 

being done at VAI, ultimately leading to more funding for groundbreaking research being 

done in the labs. 

The Grand Rapids Metro area is growing, and we have a great opportunity to attract 

more members along with their positive energy and ideas. In addition to bringing in 

more young professionals from Grand Rapids, we hope to make more connections on the 

lakeshore, in places like Grand Haven, Muskegon and Holland. 

(AT LEFT) BLAKE CRABB 

48

PHILANTHROPY 

What does VAI’s work mean to you? 

The work being done at VAI gives me hope. Losing a parent to cancer — especially one 

as aggressive as pancreatic cancer — is something I don’t want anyone to experience. 

Knowing that every day there are scientists focused on finding ways to treat pancreatic 

cancer earlier and more effectively means that, one day, fewer people will have to say 

goodbye to a loved one. 

What would you say to someone on the fence about joining VAI’s JBoard? 

What are you waiting for?! Get involved! Unfortunately, most of us know someone that has 

faced cancer, Parkinson’s or another devastating disease. Getting involved with the JBoard 

means you get the opportunity to help raise awareness and funds for the research being 

done at VAI, and we have a lot of fun doing it with events throughout the year! 

What is your favorite event hosted by or in support of VAI? 

All of the VAI events are awesome and unique. There’s such a talented team behind the 

scenes that makes every event a memorable occasion. Hope on the Hill is my favorite, and 

I look forward to it every year! Over the years we’ve had so many creative and fun themes, 

and I love seeing what’s next. 

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience on the JBoard or with 

the Institute? 

VAI has taken hope from concept to reality. The feeling of hope we all have is shared by the 

dedicated scientists that have come from all over the world to study and work right here in 

Grand Rapids. Every time I walk into VAI, hope is palpable and thriving! 

For more information about VAI’s JBoard Ambassadors, including how to get involved, 

visit bit.ly/VAIJBoard. 

(STARTING AT TOP) BLAKE CRABB & HIS MOTHER, BONNIE; 

BLAKE CRABB (RIGHT) & JARED GRAYBIEL AT COUTURE FOR A CURE 

49

Philanthropy 

VAI Marathon Team ready to get back to it 

After two years of waiting and a smaller-than-usual 

number of runners in the 2021 races — both due to 

the COVID-19 pandemic — the VAI Marathon Team is 

coming back strong in 2022, with a limited number 

of complimentary entries to four races for runners 

fundraising on behalf of the Institute: 

• BMW Berlin Marathon: Sept. 25 

• TCS London Marathon: Oct. 2 

• Bank of America Chicago Marathon: Oct. 9 

• TCS New York City Marathon: Nov. 6 

Each year, dedicated runners train for these grueling 

races while raising funds for the Institute. They 

have each been touched by the diseases studied by 

VAI scientists (including cancer, Parkinson’s, and 

Alzheimer’s and related dementias), whether through 

a loved one’s diagnosis or even their own. They also 

understand the immeasurable value of the Institute’s 

K–12 and graduate education programs in training the 

next generation of scientific leaders, and they want to 

do their part to make sure VAI’s efforts can continue to 

improve health and enhance lives for years to come. 

Bee Brave beats pandemic odds to support VAI 

Organizers of the annual Bee Brave 5K overcame 

obstacles created by the pandemic to host a fun, safe 

event Oct. 9, 2021. The race, held every fall at Shagbark 

Farm in Caledonia, Michigan, directly benefits 

Van Andel Institute’s breast cancer research. The race 

raised more than $56,000 in 2020, and more than 

$81,000 in 2021. 

50 

(STARTING AT LEFT) RUNNERS GATHER FOR THE START OF 

THE VAI PURPLE COMMUNITY OTSEGO 5K; WEST OTTAWA 

PUBLIC SCHOOLS GIRLS’ SOCCER TEAM DURING THE 

2021 PURPLE GAME

PHILANTHROPY 

VAI Purple Community school partners show unwavering support for 

the Institute 

Like Van Andel Institute, our incredible community and school partners deeply value 

collaboration and hard work. They work directly with the grassroots fundraising 

program VAI Purple Community to use their valuable time, effort and connections to 

support VAI’s research and education programs. 

In 2021, VAI Purple Community programs raised more than $380,000, which — as is 

true for all funds raised through VAI events — goes directly to the work happening at 

the Institute. 

A few highlights from last year’s VAI Purple Community events include: 

• West Ottawa Public Schools, which hosts fundraisers all year long in support 

of VAI. The girls’ soccer team was able to hold their Purple Game at the end of the 

2020–21 school year. The players wore specially made jerseys featuring the names 

of people dear to them who have been affected by cancer, Parkinson’s or another 

disease. 

• Otsego Public Schools, which hold a huge football game in support of VAI 

every other year, thanks in large part to Holly McCaw, Otsego’s director of 

communications and a 2020 recipient of the Carol Van Andel Angel of Excellence 

Award. In 2021, they postponed their VAI Purple Community event to the spring, 

which transformed into the first-ever VAI Purple Community Otsego 5K. 

• Duncan Lake Middle School, which has partnered with VAI for many years for its 

annual cancer walk. In 2021, the walk was held outside in the spring. Attendees 

could donate to dunk a teacher in a dunk tank, participate in a silent auction 

online, or purchase a variety of popsicles, ice cream and other cool treats, with all 

funds going directly to cancer research at the Institute. 

With year-end fundraiser, VAI Student Ambassadors illustrate it’s 

what you do that defines you 

Van Andel Institute’s Student Ambassador Program emphasizes and accentuates the 

power and passion exuded by the younger generations. Twenty-eight students came 

together virtually for the 2021–22 school year to form the program’s third cohort. 

Each group of Student Ambassadors meets once a month throughout the school year 

to connect with Institute scientists, educators and staff and learn how their efforts 

make a concrete difference to VAI’s work. They also meet with Institute staff to 

explore topics such as crafting a communications plan and garnering support from 

business sponsors. 

VAI Student Ambassadors combine everything they learn in the program 

to launch a fundraiser on behalf of the Institute, with 100% of proceeds going 

directly to VAI research and education programs. They also receive exclusive 

mentorship from the Institute’s heart and soul: Carol Van Andel, executive director 

of The David and Carol Van Andel Family Foundation and wife of VAI Chairman and 

CEO David Van Andel. 

The 2021–22 VAI Student Ambassadors hosted their culminating fundraiser — a 

movie night at Celebration Cinema featuring the highly anticipated film “The 

Batman” — on March 5, and succeeded in selling out the 300-person theater and 

raising more than $3,200. 

To learn more about Philanthropy at VAI and how you can get involved, 

visit vai.org/help-donate. 

51

Philanthropy 

Circle of Hope 

The Jay and Betty Van Andel Circle of Hope 

recognizes those who have included 

Van Andel Institute in their will, trust or other 

estate plans. Through our acknowledgment of 

and gratitude to these exceptional people, we 

hope that their generosity will inspire others. 

By the numbers 

65% 

VAI VAI Operating Revenues 

2% 

4% 

29% 

$60,600K 

$27,300K 

$3,700K 

$1,900K 

Investment return 

utilized 

Grant & contract 

revenue 

Contributions 

Other revenues 

Anonymous (2) 

Gasper Amodeo* 

Vivian Anderson* 

Blanche Ash* 

Kevin & Michelle Bassett 

Philip* & Shirley 

Battershall 

John* & Nancy Batts 

Fred & Julie* Bogaert 

John* & Sharon* Bouma 

William & Marilyn 

Crawford 

31% 

Dr. Glenn & Patrice Deibert 

Barbara Erhards 

J. Scott Grill* 

Joan Hammersmith* 

Terry & Jackie Hickman 

Arthur Jabury* 

Maryanna Johnson 

Dennis* & Joanne* Kozarek 

Renee Kuipers* 

Timothy & Kimberly Long 

Don* & Kathleen Maine 

Jamie Mills & Jim Nichols 

Operating VAI Operating Expenses Expenses 

4% 

65% 

$66,100K Research 

$31,100K 

$4,200K 

Management, 

general & other 

Education 

LG* & Helen* Myers 

Robert* & Lorraine* 

Nyhoff 

Jone Phillips* 

Donna Rosa 

Ronald & Mary Rutkowski 

Alan Ryan* 

Ralph Siegel* 

George Sietsema* 

Eva Sonneville* 

Alvin* & Hylda* Tuuk 

John Van Fossen 

John Visser* 

Greta Wellington* 

Carol Winton* 

John Wisneski* 

*Indicates deceased 

Circle of Hope member 

Designated Gifts | $4,418K Total 

Unrestricted 

51% 

9% 

31% 

3% 

2% 

3% 

$2,242K 

$1,367K 

$380K 

$140K 

$120K 

$99K 

$70K 

Other 

Unrestricted 

Neurodegenerative 

Neurodegenerative 

Internship Program 

Cancer 

Education 

Internship program 

Cardiovascular 

Cardiovascular 

Cancer 

Education 

Other (includes scientific event 

sponsorships & Metabolism 

1% 

52

Institute Leadership Team 

LEADERSHIP 


Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Van Andel Institute 

David Van Andel is Chairman and CEO of Van Andel Institute in Grand 

Rapids, Michigan. He is also an entrepreneur involved in several other 

business interests in the natural and life science products industries. 

The son of Jay Van Andel, founder of Van Andel Institute and co-founder 

of Amway Corporation, David is currently a member of Amway’s Board of 

Directors and serves on its Executive, Governance and Audit committees. 

Before leading Van Andel Institute, he had held various positions at Amway 

since 1977, including chief operating officer of Amway’s Pyxis Innovations 

Business Unit, and was senior vice president — Americas and Europe, 

overseeing Amway business activities in North America and 22 European 

and 11 Latin American affiliates. 


Chief Scientific Officer 

Patrik Brundin, M.D., Ph.D. 

Deputy Chief Scientific Officer 

Jerry Callahan, Ph.D., MBA 

Chief Strategic Officer 

Thomas R. Curran, Jr., J.D. 

General Counsel 

Jana Hall, Ph.D., MBA 

Chief Operations Officer 

Timothy Myers, MBA, CPA 

Vice President & Chief Financial Officer 

Sam Pinto 

Vice President & Chief Facilities Officer 

Terra Tarango 

Director & Chief Education Officer, 

Van Andel Institute for Education 

Steven J. Triezenberg, Ph.D. 

President & Dean, Van Andel Institute 

Graduate School 

Kathleen Vogelsang, CFA, MBA 

Chief Investment Officer 

Linda Zarzecki 

Vice President of Human Resources 

53

Van Andel Institute Board Members 

Van Andel Institute 

Trustees 


Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, 


Joan Budden 

Former President & Chief Executive Officer, 

Priority Health 

John Kennedy 

President & Chief Executive Officer, Autocam Medical 

Mark Meijer 

Founder & President, Life E.M.S. Ambulance 

Van Andel Research 

Institute Trustees 




Tom R. DeMeester, M.D. 

Professor & Chairman Emeritus, Department of 

Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of 

Southern California 

James B. Fahner, M.D. 

Division Chief of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology 

& Senior Administrative Physician for Philanthropy 

& Community Relations at 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 S. Wicha, M.D. 

Madeline & Sidney Forbes Professor of Oncology; 

Director, Forbes Institute for Cancer Discovery; 

Founding Director Emeritus, University of Michigan 

Rogel Cancer Center 

Van Andel Education 

Institute Trustees 




James E. Bultman, Ed.D. 

President Emeritus, Hope College 

Susan Keipper Meell 

Chief Executive Officer, MMS Education 

Juan R. Olivarez, Ph.D. 

Distinguished Scholar in Residence for Diversity, 

Equity & Inclusion, Dorothy A. Johnson Center for 

Philanthropy, Grand Valley State University; President 

Emeritus, Aquinas College 

Teresa Weatherall Neal, Ed.D. (hon) 

Former Superintendent, Grand Rapids Public Schools 

(LEFT TO RIGHT) JOHN KENNEDY, DAVID VAN ANDEL, 

MARK MEIJER & JOAN BUDDEN 

54

BOARDS 

Van Andel Institute Graduate 

School Board of Directors 

James B. Fahner, M.D. 

Division Chief of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology 

& Senior Administrative Physician for Philanthropy 

& Community Relations at Helen DeVos Children’s 

Hospital 


Chief Scientific Officer, Van Andel Institute 

Karen Klomparens, Ph.D. 

Vice Chair of the Board; Former Dean of the Graduate 

School & Associate Provost for Graduate Education, 

Michigan State University 

Juan R. Olivarez, Ph.D. 

Chairman of the Board; Distinguished Scholar in 

Residence for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Dorothy A. 

Johnson Center for Philanthropy, Grand Valley State 

University; President Emeritus, Aquinas College 

Mary O’Riordan, Ph.D. 

Associate Dean of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies 

and Frederick C. Neidhardt Collegiate Professor of 

Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan 

Medical School 

Candace T. Smith-King, M.D. 

Vice President, Spectrum Health Academic Affairs, 

Spectrum Health System; Pediatric Specialist, Helen 

DeVos Children’s Hospital 

Danny R. Welch, Ph.D. 

Founding Chair, Department of Cancer Biology, 

University of Kansas Cancer Center 

Van Andel Research Institute 

External Scientific Advisory Board 

Sharon Y.R. Dent, Ph.D. (ESAB Chair) 

Professor & Chair, Department of Epigenetics & 

Molecular Carcinogenesis; Director, Science Park; 

Director, Center for Cancer Epigenetics, MD Anderson 

Cancer Center 

Xiaodong Cheng, Ph.D. 

Professor, Department of Epigenetics & Molecular 

Carcinogenesis, Division of Basic Sciences, The 

University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center 

Joseph Ecker, Ph.D. 

Professor, Plant Molecular & Cellular Biology 

Laboratory; Director, Genomic Analysis Laboratory, 

Salk Institute; Howard Hughes Medical Institute 

Investigator; Salk International Council Chair 

in Genetics 

Theresa Guise, M.D. 

Professor, Department of Endocrine Neoplasia & 

Hormonal Disorders; Chief, Section of Bone & Mineral 

Disorders at The University of Texas MD Anderson 

Cancer Center; Cancer Prevention Research Institute 

of Texas (CPRIT) Scholar; Co-Director, The Rolanette 

& Berdon Lawrence Bone Disease Program of Texas; 

Co-Leader, Tumor Microenvironment & Metastasis 

program of the IU Simon Cancer Center, NCI 

Comprehensive Cancer Center 

Tony Hunter, Ph.D. 

Professor, Molecular & Cell Biology Laboratory; 

American Cancer Society Professor; Renato Dulbecco 

Chair; Deputy Director, Salk Institute Cancer Center 

Anthony E. Lang, M.D. 

Senior Scientist, Krembil Research Institute 

Director & Professor, Division of Neurology, University 

of Toronto; Lily Safra Chair in Movement Disorders, 

University Health Network; Director, Edmond J. Safra 

Program in Parkinson’s Disease, University Health 

Network & University of Toronto; Senior Scientist, 

Division of Patient Based Clinical Research, Toronto 

Western Research Institute (TWRI); Jack Clark Chair for 

Parkinson’s Disease Research, University of Toronto 

Mitchell Lazar, M.D., Ph.D. 

Willard & Rhoda Ware Professor of Diabetes & 

Metabolic Diseases; Director, Institute for Diabetes, 

Obesity, & Metabolism; University of Pennsylvania 

Perelman School of Medicine 

Thomas J. Montine, M.D., Ph.D. 

Chair & Stanford Medicine Endowed Professor of 

Pathology, Stanford University 

Max S. Wicha, M.D. 

Madeline & Sidney Forbes Professor of Oncology; 

Director, Forbes Institute for Cancer Discovery; 

Founding Director Emeritus, University of Michigan 

Rogel Cancer Center 

55

Van Andel Institute Board of Governors 

Co-Chairs 

Tim Long 

Vicky Ludema 

Members 

Dennis & Barbara Adama 

Rosemary Anderson 

Walter & Sally Andreatta 

Roy Aneed 

Rob & Dawn Arnoys 

Kurt Arvidson 

Heidi Auman 

Jeffrey & Cheryl Baker 

James & Shirley Balk 

Jean Bassett 

Jeff & Stephanie Battershall 

Stacie Behler 

Brian & Tami Jo Beltman 

Matthew & Shari Berger 

Gregory & Rajene Betz 

Franco & Alessandra Bianchi 

Dave & Jill Bielema 

Dan & Anne Bitzer 

Ted & Betsy Boelema 

Chuck & Chris Boelkins 

Dave & Carrie Boer 

Fred Bogaert 

Brian Bosgraaf 

Jeremy Bouwhuis 

Brent & Rachael Brinks 

Lenny & Laura Brucato 

Douglas & Joan Budden 

Jim & Martie Bultman 

William & Jackie Bylenga 

Carol Bylsma 

Jerry & Suzanne Callahan 

Scott & Heidi Campbell 

Josh & Linda Jo Carron 

Randy & Amy Chambers 

Peter & Soonmee Cha-Stamos 

Tom & Nancy Claus 

Steven & Diane Colvin 

Charles & Laura Cox 

Bill & Marilyn Crawford 

Mimi Cummings 

Tom & Tracy Curran 

Bill Currie 

Dave & Karen Custer 

Randy & Julie Damstra 

Thomas & Jacquie DeJonge 

Doug & Sandy Dekock 

Mike & Jean Dery 

Robert & Allison DeVilbiss 

Dick & Betsy DeVos 

Douglas & Maria DeVos 

Brian & Barbara DeVries 

Arlin & Emma Disselkoen 

John & Michele Dykema 

Mark Eastburg 

Mike & Lynette Ellis 

Mike & Barb Ellis 

Henry & Anne Emrich 

Diego Filippi 

Tom & Mickie Fox 

Michelle Frasier 

Tina Freese-Decker 

José Pedro Freitas 

Todd & Brenda Gardner 

Dan & Lou Ann Gaydou 

Scott & Jaclyn Geerlings 

Mary Glidden 

Daniel Goodman 

Martin & Peggy Greydanus 

Jefra Groendyk 

Ron Haan 

Peter Hahn 

Jana Hall 

Tom & Lynn Hammer 

Jeff & Ann Harten 

Kurt & Madelon Hassberger 

Paul & Sheryl Haverkate 

Tom Helmstetter 

Paulus & Rosemary Heule 

Dave & Donna Hockstra 

Steve Hodges 

Matt & Lynn Hoeksema 

Philip & Sharon Hoekstra 

J.C. & Tammy Huizenga 

Bill & Starr Humphries 

Ben & Molly Hunting 

John & Laura Hurley 

Carl & Kelly Jandernoa 

Mike & Sue Jandernoa 

Sidney & Cate Jansma 

Robert & Lynne Jarman-Johnson 

Kurt & Lynn Jekkals 

Robert Johnson 

Byran Jones 

Dr. Peter & Veronica Jones 

David & Nancy Kammeraad 

Brenda Kastner 

John & Nancy Kennedy 

Craig & Deb Kinney 

Linda Klein 

Brian & Terri Kloostra 

Steve Klotz 

Jerry & Maribeth Kooiman 

Al & Robin Koop 

Blake & Mary Krueger 

Greg & Maureen Kuhl 

John & Katie Kuiper 

Raymond & Jeannine Lanning 

Ken & Bertil Larm 

Timothy & Kimberly Long 

Steve & Mary Longstreet 

Gary & Vicky Ludema 

Michael & Suzanne Lunn 

David & Cynthia Madiol 

Philomena Mantella 

Mary Beth Martin 

Tom & Jackie McGovern 

Michael & Jen McGraw 

Mike & Dina McKnight-Dargis 

Deb Meijer 

Lena Meijer 

Mark & Mary Beth Meijer 

Rusty & Jenn Merchant 

Buzz & Lisa Miller 

Jack Miller 

Scott Miller 

David & Kim Moorhead 


Paul & Anne Nemschoff 

Laurie-Ann Netto 

Tom & Greta Newhof 

Jack Nichols 

John Norton 

Mike & Liz Novakoski 

Juan & Mary Olivarez 

Steve & Beth Olson 

Rick Pappas 

Ken & Jill Peirce 

Richard Postma 

Jay Preston 

John Purcell 

Todd Rempe 

Garry & Pat Ringnalda 

Tom & Brenda Rinks 

Jeffery Roberts 

Eve Rogus & Paul Becker 

Thank you, Board of Governors. 

As members of the Van Andel Institute Board of Governors, you serve as ambassadors who help advance the Institute’s mission and vision in the local community. 

Thank you for being our partners and contributing significantly to our success. 

56

BOARDS & COMMUNITY AMBASSADORS 

Elaine Rongey 

Doug Rottman 

John & Therese Rowerdink 

Gideon Sanders 

Mark Satkoski 

Michael & Cynthia Schaap 

Timothy & Barbara Schowalter 

Matt & Sarah Scogin 

Tony & Dawn Semple 

George & Missy Sharpe 

George & Linda Sharpe 

Mike & Meredith Slobodnik 

John & Judy Spoelhof 

Scott & Jan Spoelhof 

Robert & Susan Stafford 

Frank & Dana Stanek 

James & Dolly Strikwerda 

Tom & Mary Stuit 

Theresa Sullivan 

Duke Suwyn 

Praveen Thadani 

Dr. Steven & Laura Triezenberg 

David & Sandy Turner 

David & Carol Van Andel 

Steve & Amy Van Andel 

Sharon Van Dellen 

Dan Van Dyck 

Michael & Michelle Van Dyke 

Daniel & Ann Marie Van Eerden 

Donna Van Haren 

Maria Van Til 

John Van Wylen 

Brian & Lori Vander Baan 

Allen & Nancy VanderLaan 

Patti Vandort 

Michael & Gayle VanGessel 

David & Beth VanPortfliet 

Peter & Denise Versluis 

Christopher & Dana Vinton 

Wayne & Angela Visbeen 

Phil & Kathy Vogelsang 

Tom & Laurie Welch 

Joe Westra 

Ben & Jennifer Wickstrom 

Scott & Rebecca Wierda 

Greg & Meg Willit 

Kris Wohlart 

Les & Jane Wong 

Jim & Mary Workman 

John & Kathy Workman 

Jim & Jane Zwiers 

THIS LIST REFLECTS GIFTS 

RECEIVED BETWEEN JAN. 1, 2020, 

AND DEC. 31, 2020. 

Van Andel Institute JBoard Ambassadors 

Co-Chairs: Blake Crabb & Rachel Mraz 

Peter & Paige Afendoulis 

Keegan Balk 

Robert & Kathryn Barcelona 

Chad Bassett 

Christopher Billmeier 

Hannah Blackwell 

Blake Crabb 

Jenna DeBest 

Aaron & Afton DeVos 

Samuel DeVries & Lily Powers 

Benjamin Eastburg 

Alex Ehlert-VanBeveren & Brian 

VanBeveren 

Jennifer Fischer 

Dana Friis-Hansen & Mark 

Holzbach 

Meghan Gartman 

Zachary Gebben 

Nate Harris 

Mary Hilger 

Ken Hoffman & Lisa Rose 

Jordan Hoyer 

Jason & Brandi Huyser 

Matt & Sarah Jones 

John Kailunas 

Margaret Kennedy 

Kevin & Kathryn Kileen 

Kaleb Kimble 

Michael & Andrea Leestma 

Kimberly Livingston 

Casey Lowery 


Thomas Murray 

Christopher & Alyssa Nance 

Kendra Osowski 

Gregory Paplawsky 

Eric Payne 

Leland & Alexandra Perez 

Justin Pinto 

Cody Pletcher 

Nicole Probst 

Thomas & Kenda Ralston 

Sara Ross 

Richard Schrotenboer 

Kelsey Schweibert 

Allison Sleight 

THIS LIST INCLUDES MEMBERS ACTIVE ANY TIME BETWEEN JAN. 1, 2021, AND DEC. 31, 2021. 

Jonathan Sleight 

Riley Smith 

Joseph Spoelhof 

Timothy Streit 

Mark Stuit 

Aaron & Hailey Van Andel 

Chris Van Andel 

Jesse & Heather Van Andel 

Kyle Van Andel 

Daniel VandenBosch 

Sarah Vander Baan 

Tripp & Katie VanderWal 

Samuel & Sydney Vucelich 

Justin Welker 

Cameron Young 

Thank you, JBoard Ambassadors. 

As JBoard Ambassadors, you are leaders who exhibit the power of young professionals to make a difference. We appreciate the energy and dedication you bring to the 

Institute. Thank you for your vision and your friendship in our efforts to improve the health and enhance the lives of current and future generations. 

57

333 Bostwick Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | 616.234.5000 | vai.org

2021 Annual Report

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