“I am personally grateful to Rich and Helen for their generosity to our college and support of medical education,” said Dr. Rappley. “Rich’s steadfast vision and ‘get it done’ leadership were the catalysts for the creation of this unparalleled health sciences community in Grand Rapids. This gift from Rich and Helen DeVos is part of a growing legacy that is destined to improve the lives of others for generations to come.”

One of the unique aspects of the college’s presence in Grand Rapids is the entire project is funded through private – not state or federal – dollars. To date, $39.1 million has been raised toward the private fundraising goal of $50 million. This includes the lead gift from MSU alumnus Ambassador Peter F. and alumna Joan Secchia for whom the building is named.

“Nothing excites me more than to see a dream become a reality,” said DeVos. “Helen and I are proud to be among those who have already answered the call to bring about the new home of the MSU College of Human Medicine in Grand Rapids, but we have decided to do more, with the help of the community.  We will match any new commitment to the Secchia Center dollar for dollar up to $5 million. Our goal is to see this wonderful facility opened in September with all of the private funds committed.”

This fall, MSU College of Human Medicine will welcome its inaugural class of 100 first-year students and 50 second-year students in Grand Rapids and 100 first-year students and 100 second-year students in East Lansing on the campus of Michigan State University.

In addition to $50 million private fundraising goal, Spectrum Health has committed funding that will cover a major portion of the principal and interest payments on the debt-financed portion of the Secchia Center medical education building for 25 years as well as support for research collaboration. In addition to Spectrum Health, MSU’s other West Michigan partners include the Van Andel Institute, Saint Mary’s Health Care, Grand Valley State University, Grand Action, and The Right Place.

For more information on the Campaign for the Secchia Center, please contact Susan Lane at 616.234.2614 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

From the HumanMedicine.MSU.edu site.

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