ABA Robert F. Drinan Award to honor human rights and social justice advocate, Judge Jason M. Sengheiser

November 25, 2025

ABA Robert F. Drinan Award to honor human rights and social justice advocate, Judge Jason M. Sengheiser

WASHINGTON, Nov. 25, 2025 - The American Bar Association Civil Rights and Social Justice Section will honor Judge Jason M. Sengheiser with its 2026 Father Robert F. Drinan Award for Distinguished Service in an online presentation at 6:30 p.m. EST on Thursday, Jan. 29.

Sengheiser has served as a judge on the 22nd Judicial Circuit Court for the City of St. Louis since 2017; he was an associate circuit judge on the court from 2016-17. Prior to serving in the judiciary, Sengheiser was an adjunct professor at Fontbonne University in St. Louis.

Steadfast on the rule of law and civil rights issues throughout his career, Sengheiser has served in the ABA House of Delegates since 2016, on the Missouri Bar Board of Governors, and he is the past chair of the ABA Human Rights Magazine Editorial Board. Under his leadership, the magazine has earned various awards.

Considered a committed voice for equity, access to justice and the rule of law - shaped in part by his lived experience growing up in a deeply segregated community - Sengheiser's work reflects a career-long dedication to fairness, service and the protection of civil and human rights.

"Having known Jason since our young lawyer days, I am continually inspired by his leadership and unwavering commitment to civil rights and social justice, strengthening the rule of law, and ensuring fairness," said Mario Sullivan, CRSJ chair. "His dedication to the work of the section and its mission shines through in everything he does. I'm so proud and grateful to be part of his journey."

Sengheiser received his bachelor's degree in environmental science and German studies from Saint Louis University and a J.D. from Saint Louis University School of Law. He also holds an LLM from Columbia Law School.

In 2013, he received the ABA's National Outstanding Young Lawyer Award.

"Judge Jason Sengheiser has long stood as a beacon of integrity, compassion and quiet strength," said Lacy Durham, CRSJ immediate past chair. "From the courtroom to the broader community, his career reflects a steadfast commitment to principled leadership and purposeful service. The ABA's Father Drinan Award aptly honors his enduring dedication to equity, justice and the dignity of others. His example uplifts the legal profession and inspires us all to continue the pursuit of justice with courage and conviction."

To register for the virtual program, click here.

The ABA Civil Rights and Social Justice Section provides leadership within the legal profession in protecting and advancing human rights, civil liberties and social justice. Representing over 10,000 members with a wide range of professional interests, the section keeps its members abreast of complex civil rights and civil liberties issues and ensures that the protection of civil rights remains a focus of legal and policy discussion.