The Illinois Supreme Court during a brief ceremony on May 13 installed an official handmade gavel, crafted by esteemed Judge Andreas “Andy” Matoesian, marking a tribute to judicial tradition and as an emblem for court proceedings. The installation took take place ahead of the Legal Luminaries Reception honoring Appellate Court Justice Carol Pope (ret.) Supreme Court Justice Lloyd Karmeier and U.S. District Court Judge Rubin Castillo (ret.).
In presenting the gavel to the Supreme Court Illinois Judges Association’s President, Judge Mary Colleen Roberts (ret.), noted, “The gavel symbolizes authority, prestige, and the solemn responsibility of judges to serve their communities. We are honored to present this gavel which was donated to the IJA by the family of Judge Andy Matoesian upon his passing.” Judge Matoesian, the longest-serving judge in Illinois history, dedicated over 53 years of service on the bench in Madison County, steadfastly upholding the rule of law.
Upon receipt of these gavels the IJA knew that Judge Matoesian would want them to be distributed and used. Thus, they took on the task of ensuring they found meaningful homes to serve as reminders of the principles of justice. That led to Tuesday’s ceremony to install a gavel endowed with meaning, an enduring tribute to the craftsmanship and tradition of our judicial community. A gavel made by an Illinois judge, used to open and close proceedings in the state’s highest court, is a fitting homage to those who uphold justice with care and commitment. Judge Matoesian’s daughter, Jane Matoesian, attended the ceremony.
Photos are available here.