Lucas Escalada is a content specialist on Van Andel Institute’s Communications & Marketing team. He manages VAI’s print publications, including Highlights of Hope and VAI’s Annual Report. He works closely with the Philanthropy team, crafting remarks, letters, emails and messages designed to engage, support and thank our donors.

Prior to joining VAI, Lucas spent three years at the Indiana Toll Road, where he oversaw the organization’s Sustainability Report, internal and external communications, media relations, and video productions. Previous experiences include a writing role on Grand Valley State University’s Communications team, a lead writing consultant position at the Fred Meijer Center for Writing & Michigan Authors, and time as a paginator for 12 different Indiana and Michigan newspapers.

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he moved to Michigan in 2007. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Multimedia Journalism and Advertising & Public Relations from Grand Valley State University.