The Department of Psychological Science was delighted to see alum Judge Krista Jass featured in the November 2013 issue of River Valley Woman magazine.
Writer Dana Melius recorded Judge Jass’ story which covers her educational background, work philosophy and community goals.
“Grounded. Intelligent. Hard-working. Family-centered. Compassionate and caring.
Jass received her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1990 from Gustavus Adolphus College, majoring in history and psychology. Debating a career in law or psychology, Jass decided on Hamline University School of Law, earning her Juris Doctor degree in 1990. It was a path which mirrored that of her father, who had graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College in 1968 and Hamline in 1977.”That’s high praise for Blue Earth County District Court Judge Krista Jass. And such consistent, rave reviews and diverse support of the 45-year-old’s first three years on the bench come from both prosecutors and defense attorneys, from court administrators to judicial reviews.
Determination to do her best is indicative of Judge Jass’ career.
“I always want to get better. And in out-state Minnesota, we don’t specialize. Here, we do everything, handle all types of cases. Being an expert in every area of the law is hard work. But it’s also fascinating.”
“My perspective is to give each case the attention and time it deserves. There’s so much to do to get ready for each case. I take great pride in my responsibilities as a judge. Each one of these cases is so important to me. And I want to make sure everyone is heard and listened to.”
Jass exemplifies the spirit of our community-minded college:
“For Judge Jass…her rural, populist, community-based upbringing continues to guide her. She has seen the hardships some families face, the kinds of obstacles many defendants encounter. Entering the judicial arena “was a combination of the idea I was going to help people and serve the community.”
“Sometimes the only way you can cope with things is to have a sense of humility about it…I have faith in humanity and that there are things bigger than us.”
To read more about Judge Krista Jass, click here.
Photo by Rick Apitz.