Jon Van
Technology Writer
The Chicago Tribune
Birth -- Nov. 22, 1943 in Des Moines, Iowa.
Employment -- Joined Chicago Tribune in 1973 as a general assignment reporter, took position as science writer in 1977 and has been covering science and technology to the present. Currently specializes in telecommunications and technology issues. From 1968 to 1973, was a reporter for The Des Moines Register, specializing in coverage of local government.
Education -- Des Moines public school system, graduating from North High School in 1962. Named a National Merit Scholar. B.A. with journalism major from the University of Iowa, Iowa City, in 1966. M.A. with major in political science, University of Iowa, 1968. While in college, Van was editorial page editor, managing editor and editor of The Daily Iowan and was an NDEA Fellow in graduate school.
Professional Awards -- Winner of 1992 Science in Society award presented by the National Association of Science Writers, the only award financed entirely by working science writers. Winner of newswriting award presented by IEEE in 1992. Winner in 1983, 1986 and 1991 of national Radiology News Award presented by the American College of Radiology for covering news of radiology. Winner of 1985 award for covering engineering news presented by American Society of Professional Engineers and honorable mention in 1992 for Recrafting America series.
Professional organizations -- President of the National Association of Science Writers, 1993-94.
Family -- Father of two grown daughters who live in the Chicago area, Van lives with his wife, Marsha, on Chicago's North side, an easy walk from Wrigley Field.
Hobby - Bicycles daily to work and takes touring trips.