ARTICLES
Expanded biorepository enhances region’s capabilities
VAI Graduate School Changing scientific and educational paradigms
On a hot afternoon in mid-June, a special event occurred at Van Andel Institute that, although modest in size, speaks volumes about West Michigan’s ascendency as a new and innovative center of biomedical research.
Read MoreCancer fundraisers are painting the town purple
Back in April 2009, an event took place that galvanized a community to join together for a common purpose and that, in the days since, has moved numerous communities throughout West Michigan to do the same. Little did we know at the time that a simple fundraiser at a Grandville High School women’s soccer game would become a movement poised to spread throughout the state and across its borders.
Read MoreParkinsons research results in collaboration
As we welcome the new year, I’d also like to welcome someone to Van Andel Institute whose presence in West Michigan is significant in several ways.
Read MoreParents of children with pediatric cancers find hope provide inspiration
Will Lacey was just 7 months old when his parents learned in 2004 that he had neuroblastoma, a deadly cancer of the nervous system that accounts for 15 percent of all pediatric cancer deaths in the United States. Will’s early years were spent in endless rounds of chemotherapy and consultations with doctors in four states who declared his condition hopeless.
Read MoreMore diversity strengthens area community economy
In the past few decades West Michigan has become a more vibrant community by welcoming a greater amount of demographic and economic diversity — and both types of diversity will be a source of strength to the region as we face the challenges of the 21st century knowledge economy.
Read MoreWest Michigan Parkinson's efforts attract attention
Although we are just beginning 2011, this year will mark a significant milestone with profound health care implications for baby boomers like me, who fondly remember the eight-track tape player and TV with three channels.
Read MoreWest Michigan, Medical Mile celebrate vital milestone
West Michigan celebrated an important milestone in early September on the road to becoming a sustainable life sciences and biomedical research hub: the grand opening of the Secchia Center, which houses the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, in the heart of Grand Rapids' Medical Mile.
Read MoreInspiring and training the next generation of scientists
As we are all aware, under the changing rules of today's competitive global economy, the creation of a scientific and technological infrastructure and a scientifically literate work force can play an enormous role in attracting investment, creating job opportunities and revitalizing communities.
Read MoreScientific success breeds recruiting payoffs in area
In celebration of the recent grand opening of the 240,000-square-foot expansion at Van Andel Institute, we have welcomed thousands of local visitors into the Institute to have a look at the life-changing research into the genetic, molecular and cellular origins of cancer and other diseases that is taking place right in their hometown.
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