By Nona Tepper

Crain's Chicago Business named award-winning journalist Ann Dwyer as the first woman editor in the publication's 41-year history on Jan. 17. Dwyer, a native of Oak Park, came to Crain's as a copy editor in 1997, later moving on to the news desk and eventually becoming managing editor.

"I owe so much to the editors and publishers who mentored me for more than two decades at Crain's. I wouldn't be ready to take on this challenge if it wasn't for them," Dwyer said in a statement. "Perhaps because I've been with Crain's so long, I have a deep appreciation for the legacy that's being placed in my hands."

Prior to coming to Crain's, Dwyer worked at the Chicago Tribune. The Chicago Headline Club, Alliance of Area Business Publishers, Illinois Press Association, and others have recognized her work.

Executive editor and publisher Jim Kirk said he was thrilled Dwyer would be leading the news staff, adding that she "embraces experimentation and pushes us forward as media consumption habits continue to change.

"She is an outstanding editor with a sharp eye for a good news story and has a deft touch when it comes to storytelling," Kirk said in a statement. "As we continue to evolve, Ann understands that meeting our readers where and when they want us is extremely important to our future."

Nona Tepper