Dr. Karen Kamerschen values taking care of those in need. She wants to ensure everyone has food to eat and a safe place to eat, but also extends her focus to the future. One where science and medicine have evolved to the next-level, creating new diagnosis and treatment tools that make devastating diseases a thing of the past. She’s championed these values from her hometown of Laurium in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, through her private clinical psychology practice in Houston, and now settled in Grand Rapids, where she gives to various organizations across West Michigan.
“We live in a unique place, a region where, if you want to get involved, there are quality professionals everywhere,” Kamerschen said. “Education, food banks, health, science, community outreach — there are great organizations all over, and I do my best to get involved where I can make an impact.”
Kamerschen has been a Van Andel Institute supporter for more than 17 years, a relationship that began from reading the Institute’s name in the newspaper and seeing the building atop Medical Mile. She gave along with her husband, Dr. Robert Pearson, a psychiatrist who shared a belief in the transformational power of science. For them, Kamerschen said, it was an opportunity to be a part of the future, of making things better, and driving future opportunities for diagnostic tools and lifechanging treatments.
“We didn’t really care if we got recognition, a certificate, or our names on a plaque — we dreamed about the impact science could have,” she said.
When Pearson died in 2013, Kamerschen carried on their collective mission of giving. While legacy was not top of mind when supporting community organizations, it became clear that their support could leave a lasting impact through planned giving.
“I started to think of the places I give to regularly, and I realized an organization like VAI needed to be part of my estate plan,” Kamerschen said. “Everyone hopes they’ll see breakthroughs and discoveries in their lifetime, but it’s our support of the long-term work that can really make a difference.”
Foundational research takes time, but Kamerschen is fueled by the Institute’s focus. She’s a regular reader of VAI’s Highlights of Hope, and attends VAI’s scientific events when able.
“If you’re paying attention, there are actually a lot of developments,” she said. “Even if they feel small now, they can be part of powerful breakthroughs in the future.”
Showcasing these developments is part of the fun, too. In addition to reading Institute news, Kamerschen shares it with family and friends, showcasing the work happening in her own backyard. It’s a point of pride, she said, to be able to highlight discoveries, but also to encourage others to get involved. People are always looking for places where their money can make an impact, and Kamerschen asks her friends to find places like VAI, where every cent goes toward the cause.
“I don’t have the energy and flexibility I once had, so my involvement is now toward donating instead of volunteering, pounding nails and painting,” Kamerschen said. “For me, it’s about the cause — finding one you believe in, making long-term commitments, and knowing you’re playing your role in shaping a better future.”
The Jay and Betty Van Andel Circle of Hope
VAI’s research is fueled by long-term hope and a focus on building a future where we have new diagnosis, preventative and treatment options for diseases like cancer, Parkinson’s and metabolic disorders. Together, scientists and educators are working to improve human health and educate the next generation of scientific leaders.
You can help make a brighter, healthier future a reality by remembering VAI in your estate plan. These intentions greatly benefit the Institute’s initiatives, providing resources that expand our ability to advance science and education for decades to come. When you include the Institute in your estate plans, you are invited to the Jay and Betty Van Andel Circle of Hope — an honor that showcases your belief in research and education.
To learn more please contact Philanthropy Director Kate Frillmann at 616.234.5515 or [email protected].