Mount Prospect native appointed federal judge in Indiana

Mount Prospect native Jane Magnus-Stinson, who has held many prestigious posts during her professional career, was recently appointed a federal district judge in the Southern District of Indiana.

Magnus-Stinson graduated from Prospect High School, attended Butler University for her undergraduate degree, and graduated from Indiana University School of Law in 1983.

She was appointed by President Barack Obama as a federal judge in early June, having previously held positions as a federal magistrate, a Superior Court judge and chief counsel for then-Indiana Gov. Evan Bayh.

"It was a bigger transition than I anticipated," said Magnus-Stinson. "It's fascinating work."

She said that after being sworn in, she was immediately given 373 cases. She described the work as "intellectually stimulating."

Bayh was the person who recommended Magnus-Stinson to Obama.

"As someone who had the privilege of working closely with Jane during my time as governor, I can say with confidence that she possesses the highest ethical standards and a firm commitment to applying our country's laws faithfully," Bayh said in a news release shortly after her appointment.

Magnus-Stinson's parents still live in the Northwest suburbs. They couldn't be reached for comment Tuesday.