Lewis Rice is pleased to share that member Jerina D. Phillips has been selected as an honoree of the St. Louis Business Journal's 40 Under 40 Awards. For nearly three decades, this prestigious recognition has celebrated outstanding young professionals across the region. Honorees are chosen through an independent editorial review process based solely on their professional achievements, contributions to their organizations, and impact on the local community. “Jerina’s leadership and commitment to Lewis Rice are truly exceptional,” said Richard B. Walsh Jr., Chairman of Lewis Rice. “Her work across multiple committees and as Practice Group Leader for Labor & Employment reflects her dedication to strengthening our firm and serving our community. This honor is incredibly well-deserved.” To read the article, click under "Resources" below. Jerina serves as Vice Chair of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee, and she is a member of the Firm's Recruiting Committee and Lewis Rice Women to Women Forum (LRW2W). She also serves as Practice Group Leader for the Labor & Employment Practice Group and has extensive experience representing employers in courts throughout the country. In 2018, Jerina received a Women’s Justice Award in the Litigation Practitioner category and was selected for inclusion in Missouri & Kansas Rising Stars® for 2018-2024 and in Best Lawyers® Ones to Watch for 2022-2025. In 2020 Jerina was selected to join The National Black Lawyers Top 40 Under 40, an organization dedicated to recognizing and promoting African American legal excellence. Most recently, Jerina received the 2025 Missouri Bar Diversity Champion Award, which honors individuals who have made exceptional contributions to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession. She regularly volunteers with local non-profit organizations and serves on a number of local boards.