Lipke is seeking his fourth term in the Missouri House. He has no major party opposition, but will contest his 157th District seat with Jennifer Friedrich of St. Mary, nominated by petition by the Constitution Party.

The award from the Judicial Conference, which represents Missouri judges, was presented at the annual meeting of the conference and the Missouri Bar, the statewide lawyers' organization. The award recognizes Lipke for contributions to protect and improve the administration of justice.

The Missouri State Teachers Association endorsed Lipke for re-election this week. The endorsement, from the 44,000 member organization that is one of the more conservative education organizations, is based on Lipke's stance on education and "strong voting record in support of public education," Mike Wood, MSTA director of governmental relations said in a news release.

The Missouri Nurses Association Political Action Committee endorsed Lipke in September. The association said Lipke's views will help "ensure that registered nurses are an integral part of the health care delivery system."