Helen DeVos devoted her life to serving to others and her communities as an active member of Christian churches; a contributor to Christian organizations; and a generous supporter of the arts, education and health care. She was well known for her love and support of families, as exemplified by the Helen DeVos Children's Hospital named in her honor. Helen was also recognized locally and nationally for supporting the arts. She served in various leadership roles for the Grand Rapids Symphony and received two Bravo! Lifetime Achievement Awards. Helen served in several leadership positions for the League of American Orchestras, which honored her at its National Conference in 2007 and again in 2012 with its Gold Baton Award. She and her husband, Rich, have been recognized with the William E. Simon Prize in Philanthropic Leadership. Helen graduated from Calvin College and was the recipient of two honorary doctorate degrees, including one from Grand Valley State University.  

Helen's passion for education was reflected in her lifetime of exceptional leadership and service to Grand Valley. Her generosity and leadership helped make possible the Richard M. DeVos center, the Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences, and the L. William Seidman Center.

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