"The Van Dams' return from Africa" - Crane Clarion, September 1998.
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Edwin Van Dam
Edwin Van Dam served as a chemistry professor for 28 years, transforming his classroom into a spectacle for his students.
From his notorious demonstrations of exothermic reactions and heat packs, to his goofy antics at the chalkboard, he ensured every student left for the summer a bit more interested in science. In addition to teaching, Van Dam coached the boys and girls varsity golf teams for 25 years, guiding several squads to state championship runs. Van Dam also helped found the Cranbrook-Kent exchange program, which allowed Cranbrook-Kingswood students and faculty to study abroad for a semester at the sister school in England. During the 1985-86 school year, Van Dam and his family took part in the third exchange between the institutions. Van Dam and his wife, Brookside teacher Linda Van Dam, also took a sabbatical to Pretoria, South Africa. The Van Dams volunteered at a small hospice for children with HIV and AIDS during the trip, and also taught science, writing and other subjects in an adult education program. |
 5/26/2008 - Andy Ross
Dr. Van Dam was a memorably patient teacher of perplexing topics, and extraordinarily good natured and even tempered. I remember him taking time to show me his collection of colonial antique clocks. I'd never seen anything like that.
9/28/2007 - Alexander Flis
Doc is one of the best teachers I ever had. What I remember is his personal touch and support. The interest he took in me is rare and even now I find it inspiring. He most successfully taught me to love science. And you need this love to get though more advanced classes in college, and to succeed in life.
10/16/2006 - Gary Gerson
When I teach a class, I find myself trying to channel Ed's enthusiasm, joy, humor, and empathy for the students. We "younger" teachers are better because of the example he set for us. Ed was a wonderful, wonderful teacher, friend, coach, mentor, and mensch. GG
3/9/2006 - Andrei Stephens
I remember Chemistry with Doc being an amazing experience, from the math-intensive classes which got me completely "stoiched" to the amazing demonstrations, like the elephant toothpaste, there are memories for all of his students that will stick with them no matter what discipline they end up studying. When I lived in Coulter I used to play pool with Doc in the upstairs lounge every Wednesday. Those games, conversations, and lessons will stay with me for the rest of my life. And you were right Doc, I do love Portland.
9/14/2005 - Greg Miller
Ed is one of the reasons teaching at Cranbrook has been "as good as it gets". From his sincere friendly nature, to helpful hits, to satisfyingly stimulating conversation, Ed is among the best!
9/11/2005 - Serge Renaud
Dr. Edwin Van Dam was my advisor, chem & chem AP teacher and had dorm duty in my dorm (coulter). A great combination for me, easy to access, receptive & warm. Also very human - as witnessed by him and his family at dinner (in the dinning hall).
9/11/2005 - Sandra (Tsai) Yoo
Dr. VanDam as my golf coach was also this very grounded force in the midst of trying to achieve greatness. I learned from him the importance of a good foundation from which to build a successful individual.
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