Hope on the Hill Gala — Under the Sea

This event is SOLD OUT.

Join Van Andel Institute for the 23rd annual Hope on the Hill Gala — our signature celebration of science, discovery and the heroes working to untangle the mysteries of cancer, Parkinson’s and other elusive diseases.

Hope on the Hill — Under the Sea will take you into the blue depths of the ocean floor, where guests will enjoy an exquisite selection of food and drinks. Attendees will also be treated to a world-class performance from classical singing sensation Victory Brinker — Guinness World Record’s Youngest Opera Singer and finalist on “America’s Got Talent.” Dreaming of singing since a young age, Brinker performs across the globe, delighting audiences with her voice.

More unforgettable experiences and unique items will be available at a silent auction and paddle raise, with all proceeds benefiting biomedical research and education programs at the Institute.

Suggested attire for the evening is cocktail attire with a splash of the sea.
Complimentary valet at the main entrance.

Thank you to our incredible 2023 sponsors!

Victory Brinker is the classical singing sensation best known as the first ever Group Golden Buzzer winner and Finalist on “America’s Got Talent,” as well as the Guinness World Record’s Youngest Opera Singer.

When Victory was 4 and 5 years old, she dreamed of being on “America’s Got Talent” and would stage mock “AGT” shows for her family, using drink coasters as the Golden Buzzer and Red X. At 9 years old, Victory was able to see her dream come true when she auditioned for the judges on “America’s Got Talent, Season 16.” She was thrilled and surprised to receive the first ever Group Golden Buzzer after singing the French aria “Juliet’s Waltz” by Gounod. Victory went on to sing “Casta Diva” in the Quarterfinals, “Nessun Dorma” in the Semifinals and “O Mio Babbino” for the Finals. She also was ecstatic to perform “The Prayer” with Pentatonix.

Victory was invited to perform in Milan, Italy in February 2022 on the television show, “Lo Sho de Record” where she was also awarded the Guinness World Record for World’s Youngest Opera Singer. This title was based on her first professional contract at age 7, which involved 314 days in a variety show for the Pittsburgh Public Theater in 2019.

Victory is continuing to keep busy with performing for private events and in public venues. She loves learning new pieces of music and studying languages. She currently sings in eight languages including French, Italian, German and Spanish. She is also studying conversational Italian and French.

Ladies Diamond Star Fish | Valued at $12,500

Donated by Hoffman Jewelers, the Ladies Diamond Star Fish is a 14-karat white gold starfish with pave’ set diamonds = 2.50 carats total weight, brilliant round cuts, and G colors on a 14-karat white gold 20-inch, nautical link chain.

Jeffery Roberts Cocktail Reception and Dinner | Valued at $3,800

Experience an evening of inspiration at the home of interior designer Jeffery Roberts! The night will begin with a cocktail reception in the living space for up to 10 guests. With piano music and a chance to hear more about the history of the home. Following will be a full service seated dinner in the main floor living room with a house bartender and an amazing tablescape to surprise and delight. After dinner, guests will gather on the side lawn (weather permitting) for a bonfire, after dinner drinks, dessert and music.

Donated by Jeffery Roberts Design.