LINCOLN, Neb — Jefferson County Court Judge Linda Bauer of the First Judicial District has been recognized with one of Nebraska’s highest judicial honors — the 2025 Distinguished Judge Award for Service to the Community.

Chief Justice Jeffrey Funke presented the award during his annual address to judges from across the state in October. Bauer was honored for her leadership both inside and outside the courtroom, including her work to support families and children through community partnerships.

Among her efforts — coordinating workshops that connect schools, probation officers, and local service providers, leading the Through the Eyes of the Child Initiative to strengthen the juvenile court system, and organizing reunification celebrations for families completing the court process. She’s also known for teaming up with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office on their annual National Night Out and Back-to-School event — which doubled in attendance thanks to her outreach to local churches and businesses.

Judges Stephanie Hansen and Marcela Keim of the Fourth Judicial District were also honored for their work improving court access and innovation.

Chief Justice Funke praised all three recipients for their leadership and dedication to justice, saying their efforts reflect the shared commitment of judges across Nebraska to better serve their communities.