Amway Co-Founders Pledge 5 Million To MSU Medical School

  • Richard and Helen DeVos, co-founders of Amway have recently pledged to match up to $5 million in donations for Michigan State University's Human Medicine building in downtown Grand Rapids.

    Once the brand new $90 million Secchia Center on Michigan Avenue opens, Michigan State University will be moving the dean's office to Grand Rapids in downtown. The college will also maintain a presence at MSU's East Lansing campus.

    The entire project will cost an estimated $90 million, and will be lead Grand Rapids businessman and MSU alumni Peter and Joan Secchia. To date, the college has received $39.1 million in private donations. Faculty and staff will be utilizing the summer to set up operations in the new building.

    "It's his challenge to the community to finish the campaign by the time we have our grand opening September 14," said Susan Lane, senior director of advancement for the college.

    MSU is also slated to partner with the Van Andel Institute, Grand Valley State University, Saint Mary's Health Care, The Right Place, and Grand Action. A public open house is set for Sept. 11.