Philanthropic Syracuse Couple Surprised With State Awards
Philanthropic Syracuse Couple Surprised With State Awards
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Denise Fedorow-
Philanthropic Syracuse Couple Surprised With State AwardsSYRACUSE – On Monday, Syracuse couple Doug and Jeannine Schrock were hosting a birthday party for Doug when a few VIP party crashers stopped in bearing awards.
State Rep. Curtis Nisly (Dist. 22) presented Doug with the Sagamore of the Wabash award — the highest distinction given to a civilian by the governor of Indiana.
Before that presentation, Syracuse Town Council member Larry Siegel, who arranged the surprise for Doug with Jeannine, read a statement that he sent to the state representatives about why the Schrocks should be recipients.
Siegel said, “It seems like in communities there are sometimes a few people who give and give, often unnoticed. As you look around Syracuse, our surrounding counties and the world, you can see and take joy in that our world has changed and is a better place because of Doug’s generosity.”
He continued, “From our community center, to the reconstruction of our dam controlling the water level of Lake Wawasee and thousands of acres of wetlands, to the Youth Athletic Complex, to churches, food banks, day care services and youth centers, to water distribution to the Virgin Islands and pet rescues in different parts of the world, to the thousands of people who have provided for their families while employed by companies in which he has and has had ownership and provided leadership, all have benefited.
“The list is too vast to enumerate — it goes on and on. He does not want recognition but having been involved in town government and other local organizations for more than 20 years, I am aware of many gifts and contributions,” he said. “When times get tough, Doug shows up, makes his contribution and disappears wanting nothing in return. Doug shares generously his wealth, talents and knowledge.”
Siegel concluded, “I am not aware of any family that has done more for our community than his. For what Doug does we are grateful and appreciative. Most have no idea where the gifts come from. It seems someone with a lifetime history of contributing selflessly in such impactful ways should be recognized at a much higher level than we can provide locally.”
He also said, “It seems maybe some people should be recognized and shown appreciation while they are still with us on earth.”
Nisly read the Sagamore of the Wabash award to Schrock before giving it to him
When given the award, Doug, who was celebrating his birthday with family and friends, said, “This is great! Thank you so much!” and then went on to tell a joke.
State Rep. Dave Abbott was also present and Siegel introduce him as well as he will be the town’s representative in November due to redistricting.
Siegel said, “But we’re not done.” He shared a conversation that he had with Jeannine about how he thought people should be recognized. “She didn’t know I was talking about her.”
Siegel introduced Sen. Blake Doriot, who said, “Doug, I hate to tell you but she does all the work so we thought she should be recognized – right, ladies?”
Doriot presented Jeannine with the Circle of Corydon award, which honors Hoosiers who have made remarkable contributions to the betterment of Indiana and its people, demonstrating through life and service qualities that are exemplified by the state’s greatest citizens. The award was established in 2017 by Gov. Eric Holcomb.
Siegel had shared prior to the presentation that he thought Jeannine needed to be recognized because not only has she helped Doug with all that he was being recognized for, she also did many things on her own —helping people out in generous ways anonymously and not wanting recognition for it.
Jeannine said, “I guess the surprise is on me!”
Then Nisly presented Jeannine with an award from the Indiana House of Representatives for distinguished service.
He said, “It’s really cool that the governor gets to do all those things but the House of Representatives also gets to recognize people. I have a resolution for you from the House for your faithful service.”
Jeannine said, “Oh my gosh! I get two? Thank you so much.”
Everyone congratulated the couple as Jeannine kept insisting they didn’t do what they do to get recognized. The senator and representatives and their spouses stayed for awhile and visited with the guests.
