Name: The 18th Annual Jay & Betty Van Andel Legacy Awards Gala
Start: 2026-11-12
End: 2026-11-12

We are an economic generator through sports tourism for Greater Grand Rapids and Kent County in the West Michigan area.

We own and operate an award winning baseball/softball complex; the Meijer Sports Complex [www.MeijerSportsComplex.com](https://www.MeijerSportsComplex.com) featuring eight fields, including a championship field that seats 1,000.

Our signature event, the Meijer State Games of Michigan (Olympic-style sporting event), draws 10,000 athletes through 60+ sports in its Winter and Summer Games.  We work with many of our local sports clubs and organizations to host various regional and national tournaments.

Why Grand Rapids? We have:
•	12,000 + hotel rooms (2,500 downtown)
•	234,000 square foot downtown convention center (fits 40 volleyball courts)
•	12,000 seat Van Andel Arena
•	5 facilities that feature 4+ courts and multiple grass or turf fields
•	Grant program for new events
•	and more!

West Michigan Sports Commission

The Museum’s largest fundraiser, The Jay & Betty Van Andel Legacy Awards Gala, honors outstanding leaders throughout West Michigan who have inspired others with their personal and professional investments in the Grand Rapids and West Michigan communities past, present, and future.

**Our 2025 Honorees**

Jay & Betty Van Andel Lifetime Achievement Award  
Dale A. Robertson

Dave & Carol Van Andel Leadership Award  
Gina Bivins

“The Casey” Award  
Bill Templin

**Event Co-Chairs**: David & Carol Van Andel, Linsey Gleason

**Thank you to our generous sponsors:** The David and Carol Van Andel Family Foundation, The Steve and Amy Van Andel Foundation, and the JW Marriott Grand Rapids.

*\*Purchasing a full table at $2,500 qualifies you to be recognized as a Sustainer sponsor of the event, with additional benefits included.*

The 18th Annual Jay & Betty Van Andel Legacy Awards Gala

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The 18th Annual Jay & Betty Van Andel Legacy Awards Gala

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