The award recognises Mr. Romanowich's strong support for SIA Government Relations programmes, as well as his leadership as chairman of SIA's Chemical Security Working Group. Established in 2006, the “Statesman Award” is the highest award presented by SIA and its Government Relations Department to an individual who makes extraordinary contributions of professional time, resources, expertise and enthusiasm to the success of SIA's Government Relations programme.

“John Romanowich has never hesitated to lend his extraordinary abilities to SIA in support of our Government Relations programme,” said Don Erickson, SIA's Director of Government Relations. “SIA members and the industry have benefited greatly from his earnestness, unique insights and expertise on critical infrastructure protection. He is a true statesman because he understands the value and importance of making individual contributions that can benefit the entire security industry.”

The SIA Government Summit, held June 21-22 at the Phoenix Park Hotel in Washington, D.C., addresses how government affects the security industry through legislation, regulations and procurement. During the summit, Mr. Romanowich moderated a panel discussion titled “Emerging Threats and Infrastructure Protection Mandates.” The session included distinguished representatives of the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI), the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) and the U.S Department of Homeland Security’s office responsible for Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS).

“I am honoured to be recognised by the SIA for the Statesmen Award,” said Mr. Romanowich. “I appreciate the opportunity to work with SIA’s influential Government Relations group in shaping security best practices and legislation to protect our nation’s critical infrastructure.”