WashU Law recognized alumnus Gary Feder, AB ’70, JD ’74, LLM ‘80, with the 2026 Honorary Order of the Coif this spring. This honor, bestowed annually on law alumni who have made considerable contributions to the field and community, commemorates Feder’s distinguished legal career and longstanding commitment to the law school.
The Order of the Coif is a national honor society that recognizes excellence in legal education and scholarship. While membership is traditionally awarded to top law graduates, it also confers honorary membership on individuals whose careers reflect extraordinary contributions to law and society. Previous honorary members include former Missouri Governor Mel Carnahan and former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor.
A three-time WashU alumnus, Feder served as editor-in-chief of the Urban Law Annual while he was a law student. He built a respected career in real estate law, retiring as a partner of Husch Blackwell LLP. Since 2013, Feder has remained connected with WashU Law as an adjunct professor, teaching courses in commercial real estate law and advanced legal writing.
Beyond his legal practice and classroom contributions, Feder has devoted significant time to civic leadership and community service. He serves on the Clayton City Council and has held leadership roles with numerous organizations, including the City of Clayton Board of Zoning Adjustment, the Saint Louis Art Fair, Clayton Community Theater, the Clayton Century Foundation, and the School District of Clayton Board of Education.
Throughout his career, Feder has earned widespread recognition for his work in real estate, land use, zoning, and eminent domain law. His accolades include multiple selections to The Best Lawyers in America, Chambers USA, and Missouri & Kansas Super Lawyers, as well as several St. Louis Lawyer of the Year awards.
WashU Law congratulates Feder on this well-deserved honor and thanks him for his decades of leadership, service, and dedication to the law school, the legal profession, and the St. Louis community.
