Skerda, who made history as the first female Judge of the 37th Judicial District, was honored by a large crowd gathered to recognize her many years of service. She began her term in office in January 2006.

“It’s amazing how quickly a career passes,” said Skerda reflected during her remarks. “Close your eyes and you are old.”

Among those in attendance were state Sen. Scott Hutchinson and state Rep. Kathy Rapp.

Hutchinson highlighted Judge Skerda’s commitment to helping young people better understand the court system.

Judge Maureen Skerda speaks at her retirement party.

“Impacting the youth is a great legacy as a public servant,” he said.

That legacy was a central theme of the ceremony, with roughly a hundred community members coming together to celebrate her career.

“This is definitely a happy day for you,” Rapp said. “You have accomplished so much.”

Judge Skerda acknowledged that deciding to retire was not an easy choice. Although stepping back from full-time service, Judge Skerda will continue to work as a senior judge, a role that allows her to assist other counties when they are in need of judicial support.

“When I thought about retirement, I prayed that I had made a difference somehow,” she said. “It’s time for new people to make differences.”