Gord Holder wins  2025 CWA Canada Annual Award of Excellence

Gord Holder has done what most of us dream about – spent a lifetime in a career he loves.

Starting as a student in Manitoba in the 1980s, Gord carved out an enviable career in journalism over the course of nearly 40 years. He enthusiastically covered sports as a reporter, editor, and photographer for several newspapers, including 37 years at the Ottawa Citizen/Sun.

In addition to his journalistic commitment, Gord dedicated himself to making the newsroom a better place to work. He has proudly been an outspoken union activist and leader, serving as longtime treasurer for both his Local, the Ottawa Newspaper Guild, and CWA Canada.

In his 27 years as treasurer of CWA Canada, thousands of members across the country have relied on his financial stewardship. He also worked closely with both founding leaders of the union, former director Arnold Amber, and past president Martin O’Hanlon, to build a principled, progressive union.

“I am honoured to receive this award,” Gord said. “I get as much personal satisfaction from my efforts on behalf of the members of CWA Canada and the Ottawa Newspaper Guild as from anything else I do, and it’s nice to know that those efforts are noticed. Thank you to all those who have served with and guided me along this path.”

Given the massive changes in the newspaper industry over the years, Gord believes the union’s role is more crucial than ever: “Every year, media workers face more challenges and obstacles to doing their jobs. The need for a union is growing, the next generation needs our help and protection.”

In his off hours, Gord loves to golf.  Just ask about his envy-inducing record, sinking six holes-in-one, a feat most golfers never live to brag about doing once!