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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261003T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261003T120000
DTSTAMP:20260925T131503Z
CREATED:20260505T204818Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260925T131503Z
UID:10000387-1791016200-1791028800@www.vai.org
SUMMARY:19th annual Bee Brave 5K Run/Walk
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Saturday\, Oct. 3 at 8:30 a.m. for the 19th annual Bee Brave 5K Run/Walk. \nChoose from three registration options: \n\n\n\nRun (Timed)\nWalk (Not timed)\nVirtual 5K\n\n\n\nThe cost to register is $30 and includes the official 2026 Bee Brave 5K T-shirt. To be guaranteed this year’s race shirt\, you must register by Sunday\, Sept. 20. \n\n\n\n\nEarly registration will close at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday\, Sept. 20.\n\n\nLate registration will be available online for $40 from Sept. 21 to race day.\n\nSign up for the race by clicking the “Registration” button above.
URL:https://www.vai.org/event/19th-annual-bee-brave-5k-run-walk/
LOCATION:Bee Brave 5K – Shagbark Farms\, 7500 Alaska Avenue SE\, Caledonia\, MI\, 49316\, United States
CATEGORIES:Purple Community
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261008T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261008T230000
DTSTAMP:20260928T181721Z
CREATED:20260430T194347Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260928T181721Z
UID:10000386-1791482400-1791500400@www.vai.org
SUMMARY:2026 Couture for a Cure
DESCRIPTION:This event is sold out. Please contact Karen Carpenter at karen.carpenter@vai.org to inquire about availability and be added to the waitlist. Thank you! \nFashion\, science\, hope and progress come together at the 21st annual Couture for a Cure\, a glamorous celebration of Van Andel Institute’s 30th anniversary. Celebrate three decades of science and education initiatives while delving into the latest fashion on Oct. 8 at VAI. \nCo-hosts Carol Van Andel and Rebecca Wierda will guide you through the trendiest fabrics\, styles and outfits\, curated by the luxury specialists at Leigh’s. The evening will also feature an exclusive Hellessy fashion presentation from this year’s featured designer\, Sylvie Millstein. Millstein designs with a singular muse in mind: the modern woman on the go. Hellessy embodies a refined\, laid-back glamour that transitions seamlessly from day to night. Known for sculptural silhouettes\, compelling color stories\, signature adorned denim and draped blouses with seductive necklines\, each collection delivers core yet distinctive pieces — future classics that exude quiet confidence. \nAlongside the fashion presentation\, guests will enjoy a strolling cocktail hour\, seated dinner\, a chance auction and live entertainment from DJ AB. Exclusive items from Artistry will be available throughout the evening. \nSuggested attire for the evening is cocktail attire. \nComplimentary valet parking at the main entrance.
URL:https://www.vai.org/event/2026-couture-for-a-cure/
LOCATION:Van Andel Institute\, 333 Bostwick Ave. NE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States
CATEGORIES:Philanthropic Events,Signature Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261010T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261010T120000
DTSTAMP:20260813T180806Z
CREATED:20260730T154217Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260813T180806Z
UID:10000394-1791622800-1791633600@www.vai.org
SUMMARY:2nd Annual Bradford White 5K
DESCRIPTION:Join us on Saturday\, Oct. 10\, at 9 a.m. for the second annual Bradford White 5K! \nThe Bradford White 5K is back for another year of community\, connection and making an impact. This fall\, gather your friends\, family\, colleagues and neighbors for a 5K run/walk along the scenic Paul Henry Thornapple Trail. \nThis event is a chance to stand together in support of those affected by breast cancer and contribute to research that brings hope to individuals and families facing this disease. From experienced runners to casual walkers and enthusiastic supporters\, everyone is welcome to participate. \nOne hundred percent of the proceeds from the Bradford White 5K will benefit breast cancer research at Van Andel Institute. \nRegistration includes a T-shirt\, beverages and snacks. \n\nEarly Registration: $30 if you sign up by Aug. 31.\nRegular Registration: $35 starting Sept. 1.
URL:https://www.vai.org/event/2nd-annual-bradford-white-5k/
LOCATION:Paul Henry Thornapple trail\, 200 Lafayette St\, Middleville\, MI\, 49333\, United States
CATEGORIES:Purple Community
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261029T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261029T230000
DTSTAMP:20260928T205055Z
CREATED:20260310T131815Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260928T205055Z
UID:10000377-1793296800-1793314800@www.vai.org
SUMMARY:Hope on the Hill Gala – Quantum Leap
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate three decades of science\, education and discovery at Van Andel Institute’s Hope on the Hill Gala on Thursday\, Oct. 29 at DeVos Place\, 303 Monroe Ave. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI 49503. \nImagination will meet innovation at Hope on the Hill — Quantum Leap. The celebration will propel you to the next frontier of biomedical research and science education\, showcasing limitless hope for a brighter\, better tomorrow. Step into an evening of futuristic elegance featuring exquisite cuisine\, signature cocktails and electrifying entertainment. Dynamic experiences and one-of-a-kind items await at the silent auction and paddle raise. \nTogether\, we are shaping the future for generations to come. All proceeds benefit biomedical research and education programs at the Institute.
URL:https://www.vai.org/event/hope-on-the-hill-gala-quantum-leap/
LOCATION:DeVos Place\, 303 Monroe Ave NW\, Grand Rapids\, Michigan\, 49503
CATEGORIES:Philanthropic Events,Signature Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261103T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261103T133000
DTSTAMP:20260909T180626Z
CREATED:20260909T180626Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260909T180626Z
UID:10000397-1793703600-1793712600@www.vai.org
SUMMARY:2026 Purple Community Leadership Lunch & Learn
DESCRIPTION:Get inspired by science and leadership at the Van Andel Institute Purple Community Leadership Lunch & Learn! \nDiscover how VAI scientists are advancing research into diseases like cancer and Parkinson’s. You’ll also dive into hands-on experiments created by VAI for Education that will challenge your thinking and spark your curiosity. \nThis event is free to attend and open to all students in middle school and high school. \nTo RSVP\, contact Jennifer Levandowski at jennifer.levandowski@vai.org or 616.234.5373.
URL:https://www.vai.org/event/2026-purple-community-leadership-lunch-learn/
LOCATION:Van Andel Institute\, 333 Bostwick Ave. NE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States
CATEGORIES:Purple Community
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261107T080000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261107T153000
DTSTAMP:20260924T151142Z
CREATED:20251103T201534Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260924T151142Z
UID:10000356-1794038400-1794065400@www.vai.org
SUMMARY:20th Annual West Michigan Regional Undergraduate Science Research Conference
DESCRIPTION:Celebrating the 20th anniversary\, the annual West Michigan Regional Undergraduate Science (WMRUGS) Research Conference provides an opportunity for undergraduate students to present their own research to a large and supportive group of professional scientists. Attendees will also hear stimulating talks on current topics in biology\, chemistry\, computer sciences\, environmental sciences\, math\, neuroscience\, physics\, psychology and more. The research conference includes a keynote speaker\, research posters presented by undergraduate students\, graduate school recruiters/representatives will be on hand to discuss opportunities with their institutions and internship/employment recruiters will be available to discuss opportunities with their organizations. \nAll speakers\, poster presenters and attendees must register for the conference | No walk-in registrations will be accepted \nSpeaker and Poster Presenters\n\nSpeaker and poster presenter deadline: Noon/12:00 p.m. EST on Monday\, Oct.19\, 2026\nSpeakers and poster presenters include:\n\nStudent speakers nominated by the WMRUGS Research Conference Organizing Committee giving scientific talks | Only select the student speaker option if you are an undergraduate student nominated by a committee member from the following organizing institutions: Aquinas College\, Calvin University\, Ferris State University-College of Pharmacy\, Grand Valley State University\, Hope College and Kalamazoo College.\nStudent poster presenters including principal presenter (submitting abstract/poster title) and co-principal presenter | Please get approval from your research mentor before registering as either a principal presenter (submitting abstract/poster title) and co-principal presenter. Please also review the details under the Poster & Eligibility tab before registering as a poster presenter.\n\n\n\nSpeaker and poster presenter registration\nAttendee Registration\n\nAttendee deadline: Noon/12:00 p.m. EST on Monday\, Nov. 2\, 2026\nAttendees include:\n\nStudent attendees not presenting or speaking\nFaculty/administrative attendees\nResearch mentors\nFamily/friends of student poster presenters or student speakers\nEvent volunteers (VAI Graduate School Students and VAI Employees)\n\n\n\nAttendee registration\nRecruiter Registration\n\nRecruiter deadline: Noon/12:00 p.m. EST on Monday\, Oct. 19\, 2026\nPlease send your high resolution organizational/institutional logo to Michelle Love at undergrad@vai.edu before Noon/12:00 p.m. EST on Thursday\, Oct. 22\, 2026.\n\nRecruiter registration\nWMRUGS Research Conference Organizing Committee Members\nKeith Grasman\, Ph.D. – Calvin University\nJennifer Hess\, Ph.D. – Aquinas College\nEric Nybo\, Ph.D. – Ferris State University – College of Pharmacy\nKristin Reed\, Ph.D. – Hope College\nMark Staves\, Ph.D. – Grand Valley State University\nTim Triche\, Ph.D. – Van Andel Institute / Van Andel Institute Graduate School\nDwight Williams\, Ph.D. – Kalamazoo College
URL:https://www.vai.org/event/west-michigan-regional-undergraduate-science-research-conference-2026/
LOCATION:Van Andel Institute\, 333 Bostwick Ave. NE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States
CATEGORIES:Scientific Events,Symposium/Conference
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261118T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261118T133000
DTSTAMP:20260922T193615Z
CREATED:20260513T155357Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260922T193615Z
UID:10000388-1795001400-1795008600@www.vai.org
SUMMARY:A Conversation about the Future of Cancer Treatment Hosted by Carol Van Andel
DESCRIPTION:Are soundwaves the future of cancer treatment? Join Dr. Clifford Cho of Van Andel Institute and University of Michigan Health-West for a look at histotripsy\, an innovative approach that uses ultrasound waves to treat liver tumors without surgery. He also will highlight how studying the immune system may pave the way for improved cancer care. \nSuggested attire is business attire. Complimentary valet at the main entrance. \n\nDr. Clifford Cho\nAbout Dr. Clifford Cho\nDr. Clifford Cho is a surgeon-scientist whose pioneering discoveries have led to FDA approval of histotripsy as a cancer treatment. Histotripsy uses ultrasound waves to disrupt tumors and elicit an immune response\, which helps the body better fight cancer cells. He is a professor in Van Andel Institute’s Department of Cell Biology\, chief medical officer of University of Michigan Health-West and a professor at the University of Michigan.
URL:https://www.vai.org/event/a-conversation-about-the-future-of-cancer-treatment-hosted-by-carol-van-andel/
LOCATION:Van Andel Institute\, 333 Bostwick Ave. NE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States
CATEGORIES:Philanthropic Events,Signature Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20270225T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20270225T220000
DTSTAMP:20260925T173148Z
CREATED:20260925T173148Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260925T173148Z
UID:10000399-1803578400-1803592800@www.vai.org
SUMMARY:2027 Winterfest Celebration
DESCRIPTION:Join us at Van Andel Institute’s Winterfest Celebration\, taking place Thursday\, Feb. 25\, 2027\, at Cascade Hills Country Club. \nFor more than two decades\, Winterfest Celebration has united philanthropists\, businesses\, community leaders\, scientists and supporters who share a commitment to improving the lives of people affected by Parkinson’s disease. This generosity helps fuel research at VAI\, where scientists study how Parkinson’s begins and progresses in pursuit of life-changing treatments. \nThe evening will feature an inside look at the latest Parkinson’s research underway at VAI\, along with music\, a paddle raise\, silent auction\, raffle and exceptional food and drinks. Every dollar raised through Winterfest Celebration directly advances Parkinson’s disease research at VAI. \nWe hope you will join us as a Winterfest Celebration sponsor and help propel research that brings hope to individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease.  \nSmart casual attire is suggested. Complimentary valet parking will be available at the main club entrance. \nRegistration coming soon!
URL:https://www.vai.org/event/2027-winterfest-celebration/
LOCATION:Cascade Hills Country Club\, 3725 Cascade Rd SE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49546\, United States
CATEGORIES:Philanthropic Events,Signature Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20270426T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20270427T170000
DTSTAMP:20260910T133457Z
CREATED:20260910T133457Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T133457Z
UID:10000398-1808730000-1808845200@www.vai.org
SUMMARY:2027 Horizons in Metabolism
DESCRIPTION:Horizons in Metabolism is a two-day symposium that brings together established investigators and exceptional early-career scientists to share cutting-edge advances\, build new collaborations and explore emerging directions in metabolism research. Presented by VAI’s Metabolism and Nutrition (MeNu) Program\, the symposium spotlights the next generation of leaders and examines important questions shaping the field and human health. The program also provides dedicated opportunities for networking and meaningful exchange among speakers and attendees throughout the two-day symposium. \nThe symposium will open with Rising Stars in Metabolism\, which showcases up-and-coming postdoctoral fellows whose innovative research is poised to deeply impact the metabolism field. \nThe second day\, Bridging Immunology\, Inflammation\, and Nutrition\, will explore how disordered immune function and inflammatory signaling drive many chronic conditions\, including cancer and autoimmune diseases. Understanding these mechanisms opens the door to nutritional and pharmacological therapeutics designed to restore function and improve patient outcomes. Speakers will tackle unresolved questions\, highlight new mechanistic insights and discuss opportunities for clinical practice. \nRegistration includes access to both days of the symposium\, breakfast and lunch both days\, and beverage service throughout the event. \nAttendees may also register for an optional networking dinner for an additional $50. Registration coming soon!
URL:https://www.vai.org/event/2027-horizons-in-metabolism/
LOCATION:Van Andel Institute\, 333 Bostwick Ave. NE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States
CATEGORIES:Scientific Events,Symposium/Conference
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20270624T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20270624T230000
DTSTAMP:20260924T195836Z
CREATED:20260224T145637Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260924T195836Z
UID:10000375-1813860000-1813878000@www.vai.org
SUMMARY:2027 Design & Discovery
DESCRIPTION:Join Haworth and Van Andel Institute for an evening showcasing the latest in fashion and biomedical research at the legendary Haworth headquarters and showroom in Holland\, Michigan. On June 24\, 2027\, you’ll walk along elegant furniture and contemporary design\, all while fueling the scientific breakthroughs of tomorrow. \nThe luxury specialists at Leigh’s will unveil an exclusive runway featuring their 2027 Spring/Summer collection. Guests will be treated to a seated dinner\, hors d’oeuvres\, artisan cocktails and complimentary swag bags. \nAll proceeds from Design & Discovery will benefit VAI’s biomedical research and science education initiatives. \nThe event will partially take place outdoors. Cocktail attire and comfortable shoes are suggested. \nOnline registration for Design & Discovery 2027 is coming soon! Get early access by securing your presale ticket or sponsorship today. Contact kim.ritz@vai.org to reserve yours.
URL:https://www.vai.org/event/2027-design-discovery/
LOCATION:Haworth Headquarters\, 1 Haworth Center\, Holland\, MI\, 49423\, United States
CATEGORIES:Philanthropic Events,Signature Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20270810T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20270812T170000
DTSTAMP:20260903T165335Z
CREATED:20260826T203111Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260903T165335Z
UID:10000395-1817888400-1818090000@www.vai.org
SUMMARY:2027 VAI Epigenomics Workshop
DESCRIPTION:A hands-on workshop that helps Ph.D. students tackle real-world challenges in bulk and single-cell epigenomics data analysis\nInterested in applying epigenomics to your research? Running into challenges with single-cell data? Have code or a research question you’d like to tackle? \nThe VAI Epigenomics Workshop is a three-day\, hands-on\, problem-based experience built around solving real research challenges in epigenomics. Designed for Ph.D. students\, this year’s workshop will help you develop practical skills for analyzing protein-DNA interactions using bulk and single-cell chromatin profiling techniques. \nYou’ll work through real-world data analysis problems in guided sessions that focus on best practices you can apply to your research. Bring your own data\, code or questions to explore\, or work through provided examples alongside experts and fellow participants. \nBy the end of the workshop\, you’ll leave with new skills and connections with colleagues studying epigenomics and gene regulation across a range of fields.  \nView eligibility criteria and application details ➔ \nThe application period opens in late 2026. To be added to our mailing list\, please email Courtney Zirkle.  \nFunding for the workshop was made possible (in part) by R25HG011020 from the National Human Genome Research Institute of the National Institutes of Health. The views expressed in written conference materials or publications and by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the NIH; nor does mention of trade names\, commercial practices\, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.
URL:https://www.vai.org/event/2027-vai-epigenomics-workshop/
LOCATION:Van Andel Institute\, 333 Bostwick Ave. NE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States
CATEGORIES:Scientific Events
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