Each year IBA pays tribute to a broadcaster that has spent their entire career in Illinois behind the microphone or camer, in the production room, or in the manager's office.  IBA's Broadcast Pioneer dedicated their years to bringing local programming to their audience while serving as a pillar in the community, exemplifying the true meaning of "Localism" before it became popular.

IBA celebrates the long careers of the following broadcasters while thanking them for their contributions to Illinois.

2008:  Joel Daly, ABC 7 and Art Kimball, IHSA Sports Announcer

2009:  Mal Bellairs, WBBM, WIVS, WXRD and Jack Larson, WAIK, WGIL

2010:  Bob Larson, WMBD-TV and Jan Gabriel, Race Track Announcer

2011:  David Van Drew, WRHL