DeKALB – The Northern Illinois University College of Law welcomed more than 90 members of the NIU, DeKalb, Kane and Kendall county communities to a reception on March 6 in the ornate second-floor atrium of the recently-renovated DeKalb County Courthouse. The reception was held to celebrate the new 23 ^rd Judicial Circuit. DeKalb County Circuit Clerk Maureen Josh was presented with the NIU Law Alumni Council’s Public Service Award as a highlight of the festivities.

Dean Jennifer Rosato opened the program with welcoming remarks reflecting on the rich history of the renovated courthouse and her appreciation of the collaborative relationship between the College of Law and the DeKalb County legal system. Josh was then presented with her award by friend and colleague Greg Anderson, director of career opportunities and development for the College of Law. Anderson detailed some of the efforts Josh has made to serve the public interest during her career, including her support of the College of Law. Josh was joined by family and friends as she received her honor and briefly spoke about the importance of service to the community.

Josh is in her seventh consecutive term as DeKalb County circuit clerk, having first been elected in 1984. She was named Circuit Clerk of the Year in 1999, 2002 and 2004. She has served as president of the Northeast Illinois Circuit Clerk’s Association since 1989. In addition, she sits on a number of boards, volunteers for numerous causes and is a regular guest speaker at area schools and in political science and government classes at NIU.