Janine Geske

2009 Woman of Faith champions restorative justice

The Sisters of the Divine Savior have named Retired Justice Janine P. Geske as the 2009 Woman of Faith for her work in sustaining restorative justice processes in the community.

Restorative justice is a victim-centered response that focuses on the harm caused by offenders, as well as the need for healing of victims and communities. It also calls on offenders to take responsibility for their actions. “Her work within the prisons is much more than practicing the corporal work of mercy to ‘visit those in prison.’ It brings together victims and offenders in a way that fosters healing, understanding, and sometimes even forgiveness,” explains Nancy C. Rogers who nominated Justice Geske for this award.

Janine currently serves as a Distinguished Professor of Law at Marquette University Law School in Milwaukee. She served as interim dean of the law school from July 2002 to July 2003, and as interim Milwaukee County Executive from February 28 to May 6, 2002. She previously served on the Wisconsin Supreme Court from 1993-1998. Justice Geske graduated from Beloit College with a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Masters of Arts in Teaching and received her J.D. from Marquette University Law School. “Justice Geske’s achievements and awards are numerous. I felt she was deserving of the Woman of Faith Award because she is an inspiration to those looking to discover meaning in their lives. She is an example of the Gospel message of planting seeds of mercy and love so that new seeds may be planted within others to bring forth peace and justice to lives and communities,” Nancy Rogers states.