Building a Legacy: The People Behind 50 Years of the ABA Forum on Construction Law

The ABA Forum on Construction Law’s 50th anniversary offered an opportunity to recognize the five decades of educational excellence, professional connection, and service. Throughout its milestone year, one theme remained constant: the Forum’s success has been shaped by generations of people willing to contribute their time, talent, and expertise to the organization.

That commitment was on display across a year of programming that brought construction lawyers and industry professionals together around the country. Behind each meeting, educational session, and networking opportunity were volunteers, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, and ABA staff all working together to create experiences that have become a hallmark of the Forum.

The anniversary year began in Louisville with Constructing Project Contracts: Off to the Races!, setting the stage for a full year of programming. The Forum also expanded its reach through Construction Law Essentials, bringing two of its popular educational offerings, Fundamentals of Construction Law and Sticks & Bricks, to four cities: Chicago, New York, Orlando, and Kansas City.

The momentum continued in Dana Point, California, with Changing Landscapes: New and Effective ADR Strategies. The sold-out program became one of the best-attended Midwinter Meetings in Forum history, combining timely educational programming with the collegiality that defines the Forum.

The anniversary year culminated in Chicago, where nearly 800 construction lawyers, judges, consultants, owners, contractors, and industry professionals gathered to commemorate the Forum’s first 50 years.

The celebration recognized the people and achievements that have helped shape the organization, including its Hall of Fame inductees and Cornerstone Award recipient, while also introducing the inaugural Industry Pillar Award. An evening at the Field Museum provided another opportunity for attendees to reconnect, celebrate the Forum’s history, and look toward its future.

The record attendance and milestone events only told part of the story. Months of planning, collaboration, and volunteer leadership and dedication made each program possible, reflecting a tradition of service that has sustained the Forum throughout its history.

Across the Forum, Division chairs and committee leaders strengthened educational programming, developed networking opportunities, welcomed new members, and expanded the organization’s reach. Speakers and moderators shared their knowledge, sponsors and exhibitors supported the Forum’s programs, and ABA staff coordinated the details required to bring each impressive event together.

Each contribution looked different, but collectively they helped create opportunities to learn, build meaningful relationships, and become more involved in the construction law community. That shared investment has helped the Forum grow while preserving the sense of connection that has defined the organization for decades.

For 50 years, Forum members have written books, organized meetings, mentored young lawyers, chaired committees, and opened doors for others. The anniversary year celebrated these contributions while providing a reminder that the Forum’s legacy continues to be shaped by those who choose to serve.

The next 50 years will build on that foundation. Through continued leadership, mentorship, and volunteerism, the Forum’s members are positioned to carry forward a tradition rooted in learning, connection, and service.

This is just a glimpse of the full story. The complete article reflects on the Forum’s milestone 50th anniversary year, the volunteers and leaders behind its programs, and the spirit of service that continues to shape its future. Read the full article here.

📄Building a Legacy - American Bar Association, The Construction Lawyer (Summer 2026) Author: Tracy James, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP