This message first appeared in the Winter 2025 edition of The Gavel.
As we reach the midpoint of this remarkable year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the outstanding progress we’ve made, celebrate our accomplishments, and look ahead to the exciting opportunities on the horizon. The Gavel offers us this opportunity, and I’m thrilled to share our journey with you.
This year, our committees have truly gone above and beyond! From educational resources to innovative outreach, these programs embody the dedication and creativity of our members in advancing the goals of the Illinois Judges Association (IJA). As you read through the Gavel you will learn more specifically about all what the committees have been up to.
Additionally, at the December Mid-Year Luncheon several committee members, co-chairs, and members of the public were awarded various awards in recognition of their dedication and leadership. I am pleased to congratulate them here:
Lifetime Achievement Award:
Justice David Overstreet
Emeritus Award:
Judges (Ret.) Carol Pope, John Coady, Don Bernardi, Dan Weber, and Fred Foreman
Presidential Leadership Award, Educational Programming:
Judges Clare Quish and Jennifer Johnson
Presidential Leadership Award, Retention Committee:
Judges Michael Mullen and Amanda Ade Harlow
Presidential Leadership Award, In-Schools Committee:
Judges Araceli De La Cruz and Justin Hansen
Harold Sullivan Award:
Judge Diann Marsalek
Amicus Award:
Angie Ackerman of Judges Retirement Systems and Tim Blair of State Retirement Systems
IJA was gifted recently over 2,700 gavels handmade by the late retired Judge Andy Matosian. We see these Matosian Gavels as a symbol of excellence and recognition, and we are awarding them to deserving recipients in the IJA and the community at large. They have been given out to the members of the Chief Judges Committee, participants in the Courthouse Challenge, and the Hot Tips Challenge. Additionally, they were presented to families who participated in the Cook County Adoption Day this past month. If you have any ideas for other ways to bestow them on deserving recipients, please send me an email at info@ija.org.
Moreover, the IJA has had several opportunities since June to strengthen connections throughout the judiciary. The IJA hosted the Chief Judges Committee at a dinner this past September, bringing together Chief Judges across the state. This annual dinner brings together judicial leaders and fosters relationships that are vital for the continued strength of our judiciary. Similarly, the Courthouse Challenge and the Hot Tips Challenge have provided fun and engaging ways for judges to connect while sharing valuable experiences, insights, and ideas.
This year has also been marked by transitions within our leadership. We bid farewell to our outgoing Executive Director, Kathy Hosty, whose dedication and service has left a lasting legacy. At the same time, we warmly welcomed Margot Holland as our new Executive Director. Her leadership and vision have already begun to guide us through this exciting new chapter. The transition has been smooth, thanks to the hard work and cooperation of everyone involved, and we are confident the IJA is heading in a positive direction under Margot’s stewardship.
The IJA took an important step this Fall as it issued a public statement on Pretrial Detention. The statement was positively received, as it focused on educating the public about court processes. Looking forward, I am thrilled about the upcoming Presidential Trip to Hawaii, which promises to be an enriching experience for those traveling with us to the islands of Oahu and Kauai. This trip will provide a unique opportunity for learning, collaboration, and fostering relationships that enhance our collective work.
Additionally, I’m excited to announce the upcoming launch of our new website, which reflects our commitment to modernization and accessibility. This updated platform will better serve our members and the public, providing an intuitive and informative resource for all. We are working with a website consultant and taking advantage of the skills and expertise Margot Holland has brought with her to the IJA. We are targeting a time in the coming months to unveil the new site.
As we reflect on all we’ve accomplished so far this year, I am deeply grateful for the hard work and dedication of our members, board, and leadership. Each of you plays a vital role in ensuring the continued success of the IJA and in upholding the values that define our judiciary.
Let’s keep the momentum going as we look to the future, inspired by what we’ve achieved and excited about what’s to come. Thank you for your commitment, your collaboration, and your belief in the work we do together.
Judge Mary Colleen Roberts (Ret.)
President, Illinois Judges Association, 2024-25