VICTORIA – CBC’s editor in chief Tony Burman called Joan Donaldson "a news pioneer and one of CBC’s journalistic leaders," in a note to staff last week announcing her death. She was 60.
Donaldson was the first head of CBC Newsworld – responsible for the development and operation of Canada’s first news network. Appointed during its inception stages in 1987, she oversaw the launch of Newsworld in 1989. "There couldn’t have been a better person for the job, as Joan had developed a reputation for always having her finger on the pulse of Canada, delivering newsworthy stories from all over the country. Joan recognized the importance of connecting Canadians to each other through their stories-her fingerprints and influence remain to this day," wrote Burman.
However, in 1990, Donaldson was struck by a cyclist in downtown Montreal and suffered serious head injuries from which she never fully recovered. She could not return to work.
"Born in Toronto, Joan first joined the CBC in 1967 as an editor with National Radio News. During her time with CBC Radio, she served as Senior Editor of The World at Six, Sunday Morning Magazine and various news specials. In 1971, Joan went to CBC Winnipeg as the producer of the popular early evening news show 24 Hours. Two years later, she returned to the network in Toronto as a producer on Newsmagazine and news specials," recounted Burman.
After a five-year stint as a field producer on CTV’s W5, Donaldson (pictured) joined Ryerson Polytechnical Institute in 1975 as an instructor in broadcast journalism, in ad
dition to teaching at the University of Western Ontario in the journalism program for Native People. Joan returned to the CBC in 1985 as co-ordinator of regional programming, TV news and current affairs, before being appointed head of Newsworld.
In 1999, CBC Newsworld established the Joan Donaldson Scholarship for aspiring journalists. "Throughout her distinguished career, Joan helped talented young Canadians realize their journalistic potential in CBC newsrooms and in the classrooms of Ryerson and The University of Western Ontario. The scholarship, dedicated to her invaluable contributions to Canadian journalism, continues her mission," said Burman.
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