Uniting Voices Chicago mourns the loss of Brian Vandenberg, beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother. Brian was a devoted member of the Board of Directors for 15 years, tirelessly serving as an advocate, supporter, and champion for youth across Chicago seeking access to music education opportunities through Uniting Voices. Brian and his wife, Jamie, attended countless Uniting Voices events throughout the years, and his generous spirit lives on through his three children, two of whom (Tyler and Mykel) serve on Uniting Voices’ Ambassadors Board.
Brian’s passion for improving the lives of others could be seen in every facet of his life. During his career, Brian transformed the healthcare landscape by reimagining prescription delivery, improving the lives of those living with chronic conditions, and advocating for physicians and medical students across America through his roles with Allscripts Healthcare, Livongo, and the American Medical Association. Most recently, Brian joined the executive team at Homeward, a healthcare platform redesigning the delivery of healthcare across rural communities. Brian also established multiple scholarships for students with financial need, through the AMA Foundation’s Physicians of Tomorrow and the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, and he participated in cycling events, galas, and numerous other activities to raise funds and awareness for causes near to his heart.
Brian’s generosity to Uniting Voices Chicago over the course of his tenure with the organization cannot be overstated. Introduced to the organization through friend Michael Nemeroff, Brian and his wife grew close with Uniting Voices President Josephine Lee. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when the organization was devastated over the loss of all in-person activities, Brian stepped up to provide transformational funding that helped ensure the continued accessibility of Uniting Voices’ programs. The annual Red Jacket Optional gala was another passion of his; Brian sponsored the event annually and invited guests in his network to join him, introducing countless individuals to Uniting Voices’ transformational work. Brian, Jamie, and their children could often be seen at Paint the Town Red, Black History Month Concerts, SoundBites, and other Uniting Voices events, proudly advocating for and cheering on singers on stages across Chicago.
Brian’s unwavering support and dedication to Uniting Voices Chicago has had a profound impact, and the Uniting Voices family is deeply grateful for his compassion and selflessness. The Vandenberg family is planning a Celebration of Life on Sunday, April 27 at 11am CDT at the Chicago Cultural Center. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in Brian’s honor to the Vandenberg Equity Fund and/or Uniting Voices Chicago.