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Commencement
 
2010 Honorary Degree Recipients
 
David Van Andel
Commencement Speaker
Honorary Degree Recipient
David Van Andel, chairman and CEO of the Van Andel Institute (VAI), an organization that has made significant advancements in the life science and biomedical research industry in Grand Rapids. Since its founding in 2000, the VAI under Van Andel's guidance has seen strong growth and achievements, and has realized the establishment of international partnerships in the areas of research, business, and education. In addition to his role with the VAI, Van Andel is active in numerous business and community organizations, serves as current chairman of the Economic Club of Grand Rapids, and is a board member of The Right Place Program and the Hope College Board of Trustees. Van Andel is the son of Amway co-founder Jay Van Andel.
 
Rosemary Zant '58
Honorary Degree Recipient

Rosemary Zant is a lifelong resident of Grand Rapids who used her B.S. in Biology from Aquinas to teach in the Catholic school system. While teaching, Zant developed a knack for fundraising that took her to the Multiple Sclerosis Society where she served as event director for “Tee Off Against MS,” which raised over $2.5 million during her tenure. After a successful fight of her own against breast cancer in the late 1990s, Zant returned to fundraising, becoming event Director for the “Positively Warren Golf Classic,” which benefits the cancer library at Saint Mary’s Richard Lacks Cancer Center and the Grand  Rapids Sports Hall of Fame, which supports youth athletic programs.  She received the Outstanding Alumni Award in 2004.
 
Greg Alksnis '71
Greg Alksnis graduated from Aquinas with a B.S. in business administration, and was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006 for golf due to his athletic accomplishments during and after his years at Aquinas. He served as a Trustee on the Aquinas Board from 1997 until 2006 when he was awarded Emeritus status. Alksnis is the co-owner, vice president and secretary of Magic Steel Corporation of Grand Rapids.
 

>>Past Commencement Speakers & Honorary Degree Recipients

 
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