The Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts announced the following certified list of candidates who have applied for the associate judge vacancy in the 17th Circuit based on the impending retirement of Associate Judge Steven L. Nordquist:
Aaron C. Buscemi
Shawn C. Fulbright
Shauna L. Gustafson
Kirstin J. Krivanec
Kathryn J. Cross
David M. Gill
Jesse P. Hodierne
Paul R. Vella
Andrew J. Fisk
Elizabeth H. Granger
Eric K. Jacobs
Daniel T. Wilkins
The Circuit Judges of the 17th Circuit are inviting written comment regarding these candidates from all interested individuals and organizations. Comments must be in writing and received by the Chief Judge no later than 5:00 p.m. on June 17, 2026. Anonymous letters will not be accepted. Letters received will be placed in the respective candidate’s file for consideration. There shall be no other direct or indirect contact with any Circuit or Associate Judge regarding an individual’s candidacy.
Anyone wishing to comment should direct their correspondence by U.S. mail to Chief Judge Brendan A. Maher, Winnebago County Courthouse, 400 West State Street, Suite 215, Rockford, Illinois 61101 or by email to
