Chamber of Commerce Announces Winner of Henry F. Schricker ‘Service Before Self’ Award

Posted on October 25, 2018
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI

The Starke County Chamber of Commerce has announced the winner of the Henry F. Schicker ‘Service Before Self Award’ and it’s Civil Engineer Van Janovic.

Van is a graduate of Grovertown High School and the founder of Territorial Engineering.

According to the nomination application that was submitted on his behalf, Mr. Janovic has been active in projects all over the county, with many of those being on a volunteer basis.

For instance, during Nancy Dembowski’s term as Mayor of Knox, Van worked closely with her on the Phoenix House project, which is a facility that provides a safe haven for domestic violence victims and their families.

Demobowski was quoted saying that Janovic never billed the organization for any of the professional work that went into the home which helps so many abused women and families. She added that he has always been a person who puts community ahead of self and that his work over the years is an example of that.

It was also noted that he designed the ramp which is to be built at the depot in the Knox Gateway Area, with no charge for his professional services. Other volunteer work includes projects for the Starke County Historical Society, the public library and the Missionary Church, just to name a few.

The individual who nominated Van also included that he is active in the Koontz Lake Lions Club and noted that he took over as president when others declined leadership positions.

He has also served on multiple boards where he’s made a difference including the Historical Society and Knox Gateway, Inc.

In addition to providing assistance to Starke County and the surrounding area, Van spends several weeks each year doing volunteer work in developing countries.

Janovic will be honored at the Chamber’s Annual Awards Dinner at the Nancy J. Dembowski Community Center on Thursday, November 8th.

Tickets for the event are $35 each. They’re available on eventbrite.com or at the Starke County Chamber of Commerce Office, located at 400 N Heaton Street.