Asian Alumni Association awards judge

When the IU Asian Alumni Association board of directors sat down to review the nominees for their 2008 Distinguished Asian Pacific American Alumni Award, Judge G. Michael Witte stood out like a sore thumb.

“His resume came in and honestly completely blew us away,” said Jessica Kim, president of the IU AAA board.

Kim said Witte’s numerous professional accomplishments and long history of giving back to the community made it clear he had earned the award, which recognizes distinguished alumni that have done great things for the Asian community.

“In the past, it has been a difficult decision,” Kim said, “but in this case, it really wasn’t.”

Witte graduated from IU in 1979 with a Bachelor’s degree in forensic studies. He went on to get his Law degree from IU in 1982 and currently serves as judge for the Dearborn Superior Court No.1.  He is accomplished as a judge, community member and an Asian American.

“Judge Witte is an exemplary model to young adults, especially to IU students who aspire to go into law,” said Melanie Castillo-Cullather, director of the Asian Culture Center.

Witte has made strides for the Asian-American community, as he was the first Asian-American trial judge elected in Indiana. In 2011, he will become the first Asian-American chairman of the American Bar Association’s judicial division.

Although he has these “firsts” under his belt, Witte humbly said he prefers not to dwell on those accomplishments, but is more proud of what he has done in the community. He has built several Habitat for Humanity houses and has been actively involved in the YMCA.

“Those are the things I guess I’m more proud of,” he said.

Witte said the biggest honor has been his long-time service as an Eagle Scout.

“That is what laid the foundation for everything else I have sought to achieve in my career,” he said.

Witte is a strong advocate for community service and said doing things for other people is the best work of life.

“I think any person that does that finds it very fulfilling,” he said.

Witte will receive his award Oct. 3 at the Asian Culture Center’s 10th anniversary banquet. The banquet will start at 7 p.m. in the Alumni Hall in the Indiana Memorial Union. Castillo-Cullather said Witte will receive a plaque in his honor and will be joined at the banquet by his family and friends.

“This award is a tribute to my mom and dad,” Witte said. “They put five children through IU and had a child on campus for 20 consecutive years.”

Witte said he is excited to come to Bloomington for the 10th anniversary banquet, and reminisced about an undefeated IU basketball team and Trojan Horse gyros.

“IU has a very dear spot in my heart,” Witte said. “I’m very appreciative of the opportunity they have presented.”