ST. LOUIS, Mo. — Presiding Judge Michael F. Stelzer today announced that the 22nd Judicial Circuit Court of the State of Missouri has appointed Jacob Long to serve as its new Chief Communications Officer effective Monday, November 1.

“As one of the largest judicial circuits in the entire state, it’s absolutely imperative that we take an active role in communicating the purpose, services, and activities of the Court with our constituents and other key stakeholders,” said Judge Stelzer. “We’re fortunate to have someone with Jacob’s caliber of experience and professionalism joining our team. I trust that he will be a dependable, accessible, and knowledgeable source of information.”

As Chief Communications Officer, Long will serve as the official spokesperson and primary media contact for the Court. He will also work to strengthen the Court’s social media and online presence, provide strategic and comprehensive communications counsel to judges and Court staff, and share important information with the community at large about the co-equal duties and responsibilities of the judiciary.

“I’m extraordinarily grateful to the judges of the 22nd Judicial Circuit for providing me with the opportunity to continue serving the City of St. Louis,” Long said. “Consistent, proactive, and meaningful communication are critical to buildingtrust and maintaining confidence in our various institutions. With this appointment, I am very much looking forward to sharing and promoting the purpose, mission, and accomplishments of the Court.”

Long joins the 22nd Judicial Circuit with more than 10 years of professional communications, journalism, and media experience. He most recently served as Director of Communications for Lyda Krewson, the first woman ever elected Mayor of the City of St. Louis.

Long also previously worked as a television news anchor, investigative reporter, and producer in cities across the country, including Boston, St. Louis, Jacksonville, Fla., and Peoria, Ill. His original
reporting has made national headlines and has been honored with multiple regional Emmy awards and nominations for journalistic excellence.

A native of Granite City, Ill., Long holds a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism from Illinois State University and is a proud resident of the City of St. Louis.