John Newman, Director of Information Management

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The Indiana Supreme Court is saying good-bye to the longtime Director of Information Management.  John Newman is retiring July 25th, after 22 years with the Indiana Supreme Court, Chief Justice Randall T. Shepard announced today.

Newman began his career in state government in 1970, taking oral history interviews for the Indiana State Library.  Within months, he was named Indiana State Archivist.  He remained in that position until 1986.  During his years as State Archivist, Newman dedicated his time to making state records easily accessible. Guided by the fundamental belief that citizens have the right to know and inspect what government is doing, he served as a watchdog for the public.  Newman explained, “It is the duty of the government to keep good records.  Information needs to be maintained in order to provide accountability on how taxpayer’s money is being spent.” 

In 1986, Newman was named the Indiana Supreme Court’s Director of Information Management.  Visiting all 92 counties many times, Newman began helping trial courts maintain records.  He made recommendations to county courts on efficiency and storage.  He was instrumental in helping courts dispose of tons of unneeded records.  During Chief Justice Shepard’s 1997 State of the Judiciary, he and longtime associate Thomas Jones received a standing ovation.  Justice Shepard highlighted their work and the “5400 file cabinets” standing empty thanks to their efforts.  

While Newman focused on consolidating records—he also paid careful attention to documents of historic significance.  Records that shed light on the beginning of Indiana history may have been lost if not for his dedication.  A Federal Census from 1810 was discovered and preserved under his leadership.  Documents from 1813-1816 detailing what newspapers prominent Indiana political leaders subscribed to were also salvaged.  They are now housed at the Indiana State Archives.

As technology advanced, Newman utilized it to preserve and store records.  Chief Justice Shepard said, “He has been a resource for clerks and trial court judges across the state.  Records once kept on paper in only one county are now accessible to millions of people via the Internet thanks to John’s dedication.”

In good health, Newman leaves state government to pursue his passion for writing.  He plans to hike and visit National Parks with his newfound free time.     

Justice Brent Dickson invites colleagues and friends to a reception in Newman’s honor.  It is Thursday, July 24th from 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. at the State House.  It will be held on the third floor, in the Supreme Court courtroom and atrium.  It will also be webcast live.