Indiana Chief Justice Loretta Rush presents Kosciusko County Superior Court Three Judge Chad Miner with a certificate from the Indiana Judicial College. Photo provided.

News Release

INDIANAPOLIS — Many judges, magistrates, commissioners, and referees were recognized by Chief Justice Loretta Rush for their commitment to higher education and their long-time service.

Forty judicial officers received an Indiana Judicial College certificate, 29 were recognized for participating in the two-year/two-week Indiana Graduate Program for Judges, and two were honored for years of service on the bench. The accolades were presented at an annual judicial conference.

Indiana Judicial College

Judicial officers must complete 120 hours of education presented by the Indiana Office of Court Services to receive this certificate. The program enhances legal knowledge and improves personal and professional development.

Among judges in the region who received a certificate were:

• Judge Chad Miner (Kosciusko County)
• Judge Matthew Rentschler (Whitley County)
• Judge Christopher Spataro (Elkhart County)
• Judge Benjamin Vanderpool (Wabash County)

Indiana Graduate Program for Judges

The Graduate Program is a limited attendance educational experience for appellate and trial level judicial officers that offers an in-depth and intensive learning experience and requires attendees to commit to one week of course work for two consecutive summers.

Among judges in the region who received a certificate were:

• Judge Steven Hagen (Noble County) – not pictured
• Judge Chad Miner (Kosciusko County)
• Judge Kristine Osterday (Elkhart County)
• Judge Christopher Spataro (Elkhart County)