Mooresville native Jennifer Bauer, a staff attorney for the Indiana Supreme Court’s Judicial Center, was given the Court’s “Pride of the Miami” for her selfless help with her mother’s organ transplant, Chief Justice Randall T. Shepard announced today.

Ms. Bauer received the award during the court’s annual Employee Recognition Ceremony from Miami nation Vice-Chief  John Dunnagan, after she was introduced by Chief Justice Randall T. Shepard.

Ms. Bauer played a critical role when her mother, Karen Bauer of Mooresville, needed an organ transplant due to a kidney disease. Mrs. Bauer is married to Travis Bauer.

“Ms. Bauer’s action displayed courage and a deep generous spirit.  We are proud of her actions and very pleased she is part of the Supreme Court family,” said Chief Justice Shepard.

"The transplant returned Mrs. Bauer’s vitality and health; she is now doing better than expected, and her doctors are pleased with her progress.  Just as Mrs. Bauer gave Jenny life, Jenny returned the gift,” the Chief Justice added.

Left to Right: Chief Justice Randall T. Shepard, Jenny Bauer, Vice Chief John Dunnagan of the Miami Nation, Jenny's mother Karen Bauer, Jenny's sister Mary Sizemore holding her daughter Claire, and Jenny's father Travis Bauer.

Ms. Bauer received her undergraduate degree from DePauw University and her law degree from Indiana University-Bloomington. She has worked for the Judicial Center for nine years.

The “Pride of the Miami” award was created by court staff to recognize outstanding service by a member of the Supreme Court’s staff. The staff decided to name it in honor of the Miami Nation, whose mission is to “befriend and care for the children, young people, adults, and elders, assisting them in whatever way we are able.”

It has only been presented once before. Commission on Legal Education staffer Lana James received the award in 2007. Court staffers consulted with the Miami Nation and received the nation’s consent before proceeding with the award.