SCOTT COUNTY NATIVE NAMED ILLINOISAN OF THE YEAR

WINCHESTER — A Scott County native is being recognized statewide for a distinguished career in journalism. Retired Chicago Tribune investigative reporter Ray Long has been named the 2026 Illinoisan of the Year by the Illinois News Broadcasters Association.

Long, a graduate of Winchester High School, spent 44 years working in print journalism across Illinois, including time with the Peoria Journal Star, the Chicago Tribune, and the Associated Press. Throughout his career, he became known for in-depth investigative reporting and coverage of state government.

He was twice named a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for investigative journalism and also authored a best-selling book focusing on longtime Illinois political figure Michael Madigan.

Long will receive the award during a ceremony scheduled for April 18.