After nearly two decades of distinguished service to judicial education, Judge Lisa Stark retired from her role as Dean of the Wisconsin Judicial College on August 23.
Judge Stark's journey with the Wisconsin Judicial College began in 2005 when she was appointed Associate Dean, a position in which she thrived for five years before ascending to Dean in 2010. Reflecting on her tenure, Stark said, "I think my goal in being the Dean was to make sure that the process was really well organized and sustainable. We have a long history in Wisconsin of interactive, experiential education, which has worked well, and we are nationally renowned for our education. So, we wanted to continue that."
Judges Guy Dutcher and Wendy Klicko will replace Judge Stark as co-Deans of the Wisconsin Judicial College
During her time as Dean, Judge Stark implemented significant changes that will leave a lasting impact on Wisconsin's judiciary. She successfully petitioned to create a Supreme Court rule institutionalizing the judicial college and new judge orientation. She also spearheaded the expansion of the new judge orientation program, increasing it from a brief introduction to a comprehensive three-day seminar. "We now provide very basic but very helpful and practical substantive information, and resource information," Stark explained. Additionally, she focused on fostering mentorship and relationships among judges, which included organizing evening events and wellness activities at the college.
As she prepares to pass the torch to the incoming Co-Deans, Judges Guy Dutcher and Wendy Klicko, Stark expressed confidence in their ability to build on the strong foundation. "I am excited for them because I think they will have some new ideas. It's time for fresh faces and perhaps some fresh philosophies." She also expressed her thanks to all of the wonderful colleagues who have selflessly shared their time and expertise in teaching at the college.
Judge Stark's contributions to the Wisconsin Judicial College and her leadership in judicial education have left an indelible mark. As she continues her judicial career on the District III Court of Appeals, her legacy as an advocate for education and collaboration among her peers will endure.
Third Branch eNews is an online monthly newsletter of the Director of State Courts Office. If you are interested in contributing an article about your department’s programs or accomplishments, contact your department head. Information about judicial retirements and judicial obituaries may be submitted to: Sara.Foster@wicourts.gov