Michael Van Beek is director of research for the Mackinac Center for Public Policy. He joined the Mackinac Center in June 2009 as director of education policy. He has authored several studies for the Center as well as analysis and commentaries that have been published in The Wall Street Journal, National Review, The Hill, The Detroit News, the Detroit Free Press and elsewhere.

Van Beek obtained his graduate degree in history from Purdue University and his undergraduate degree from Hope College.

He lives in Midland, Mich., with his wife and three children. His favorite color is orange.