Honorees recognized for extraordinary service and lasting impact in public service, medicine, the arts, and athletics 

DOVER — Last week, Governor Matt Meyer presented Delaware’s highest civilian honor—the Order of the First State—to five Delawareans whose leadership and service have strengthened communities across our state: Brooks Banta, Ellen Bartholomaus, Anand Panwalker, Mike Vincent, and Robert “Bob” Vanderhost.

“Delaware is a state of neighbors, and these honorees are the kind of neighbors who make a real difference,” said Governor Meyer. “Each of them has built something that lasts –– stronger local government, healthier communities, a richer arts scene, and opportunities for young people to grow through sport, mentorship, and service. I’m proud to recognize their extraordinary contributions with the Order of the First State.” 

About the Order of the First State 
The Order of the First State is the highest civilian honor awarded by the Governor of Delaware. It recognizes individuals whose service, leadership, or achievement has made a profound and lasting impact on Delaware and its people.  This award is reserved for exceptional service, leadership, or achievement in any field—public service, philanthropy, education, business, the arts, or community building—that strengthens the fabric of Delaware.  
 
For photos of the event, CLICK HERE. 

2026 Order of the First State Recipients 
Brooks Banta 
Brooks Banta served in public office for more than 60 years, including service in Dewey Beach, Clayton, and on the Smyrna Board of Education. He was elected to Kent County Levy Court in 1996, later serving 14 years as Levy Court President before retiring in 2020. During his tenure, he emphasized sewer investments, paramedic services, and fiscal responsibility, and he was instrumental in the development of the Delaware Turf sports complex. 

Ellen Bartholomaus 
Ellen Bartholomaus has devoted decades to expanding access to the arts in Delaware. She has served on the board of the Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts (now The Delaware Contemporary) for more than 40 years, helping guide major growth including the development of its Riverfront building. After the tragic death of Blue Streak Gallery owner Avery Draper, Bartholomaus stepped in to sustain the gallery and, for 37 years, helped make it a cornerstone of contemporary and fine arts in Delaware—uplifting established and emerging artists alike. 

Anand Panwalker, M.D. 
Dr. Anand Panwalker served patients for more than 55 years in infectious disease. He came to Delaware in 1980 to establish the Infectious Diseases Division for the VA in Elsmere, where he developed teaching programs, served as an infection control officer, and created specialty clinics for HIV and hepatitis C. He also established regional guidelines for coordinated hepatitis C care across 10 VA hospitals in the region. After 23 years at the VA, he continued his service in private practice and at ChristianaCare, including as Associate Vice President for Medical Affairs and Professional Excellence. 

Mike Vincent 
A lifelong Seaford resident, Mike Vincent dedicated decades to public service—serving 14 years on Seaford’s Planning and Zoning Commission and three years on Seaford City Council. He was elected to Sussex County Council in 2008 and served as Council President from 2010 until his retirement last year. His tenure is marked by focus on public safety, land use, and economic development. Vincent’s fire service record is equally distinguished: he is Past President and Chief Emeritus of the Seaford Volunteer Fire Department and a former president of the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association. 

Robert “Bob” Vanderhost 
Bob Vanderhost is recognized for excellence as an athlete, mentor, and community advocate. After military service, he enrolled at Delaware State College in 1967 and became a standout for the Hornets—twice an All-CIAA selection, averaging more than 19 points per game, joining the 1,000-point club, and earning team Most Outstanding Player in 1970. DSU later honored him as 2018 Alumnus of the Year and inducted him into the DSU Athletics Hall of Fame in 2012. After his playing career, he served as an assistant coach, Philadelphia public school teacher, juvenile gang worker, and Assistant Director of the Wilmington Housing Authority—while continuing mentorship and community leadership through organizations supporting Black sports and culture and DSU alumni engagement. 

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