LEONARDTOWN, MD – John Sterling Houser, deputy county attorney for St. Mary’s County Government, has been selected as a 2026 honoree in The Daily Record’s Leaders in Law awards program, earning the Generation J.D. Award.
The recognition highlights attorneys admitted to the Maryland bar for 10 years or less who show early professional accomplishments, community service, and commitment to the legal field. Houser serves in the St. Mary’s County Office of the County Attorney, where he has contributed for more than five years.
St. Mary’s County Government announced the honor on March 30, 2026. Commissioner President Randy Guy praised the selection. “We are proud to see John Houser recognized through The Daily Record’s Leaders in Law program,” Guy said. “This recognition is well deserved, and we are grateful for the professionalism and integrity he brings to our organization each day.”
Houser responded with appreciation for the award and the support he has received. “I’m honored to be named among this year’s Leaders in Law. It is a privilege to serve St. Mary’s County, and I am grateful for the guidance and support of the mentors who have shaped my work in county government over the past five years.”
The Leaders in Law program, presented by The Daily Record in partnership with the Maryland State Bar Association, recognizes outstanding legal professionals across Maryland. Categories include Lifetime Achievement, Leadership in Law, Generation J.D., In-House Counsel, Justice Champion, and others. Honorees demonstrate excellence in serving businesses, clients, individuals, and communities.
In the 2026 Generation J.D. category, Houser joins eight other recipients: Matthew Braun of Maryland Legal Aid, Terence Davis of Morgan & Morgan, Patrick Dillon of Shapiro Sher, Mandee Heinl of Saul Ewing LLP, Trey Hilberg of Miles & Stockbridge P.C., Andrew Janet of Janet, Janet & Suggs LLC, Kendrick K. McLeod of Semmes, Bowen & Semmes, and Ryan Willis of Smith Clinesmith LLP.
The full list of 2026 honorees also features St. Mary’s County Circuit Court Judge Kevin Hill in the Leadership in Law category. The program marks its 26th year of spotlighting contributions that strengthen Maryland’s legal community.
Houser’s selection underscores the role of county attorneys in local government operations, including legislative support, land use matters and public service initiatives in Southern Maryland. His work has included providing updates to county commissioners on state legislation affecting shoreline stabilization and other local issues.
The 2026 honorees will be celebrated at an event on Monday, April 20, 2026, from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Hilton Baltimore BWI Airport, 1739 West Nursery Road, Linthicum Heights, MD. The gathering brings together legal professionals from across the state to recognize achievements in public service and legal excellence.
The Daily Record, a digital-first news media company focused on law, government, and business, publishes the awards annually along with a special publication. It has hosted the program for more than two decades as part of its commitment to highlighting leadership in Maryland.
For additional details on the Leaders in Law program, visit The Daily Record’s website at https://thedailyrecord.com/event/leaders-in-law.
St. Mary’s County Government operates from Leonardtown and serves residents across Southern Maryland with services in public safety, planning, education, and legal affairs. The Office of the County Attorney provides counsel to county departments and commissioners on a range of matters that support efficient and lawful governance.
This recognition arrives as St. Mary’s County continues to address growth, environmental concerns, and community needs in a region known for its historic sites, waterways, and proximity to the nation’s capital.