Lincoln, Neb.
– Experience Works, the nation’s largest provider of training and employment services for older workers, announced today that Sally Gordon, of Lincoln, Neb., is America’s
Outstanding Oldest Worker female honoree for 2010. Ms. Gordon, who is 101-years-old, was recognized today during a press conference and celebration held in the rotunda of the Nebraska state capitol building.
Ms. Gordon was the first female assistant sergeant-at-arms for the State of Nebraska – and has served members of the legislature for the past 26 years.
With an employment history that spans 84 years, Ms. Gordon has worked for three of Nebraska’s governors and several other government agencies. Her experience also includes court reporting, advertising, retail work and professional modeling – a career she began at age 56.
“Sally Gordon is a great role model for people of all ages – especially older workers,” said Billy
Wooten, Experience Works executive director of program operations. “She remains very active and welcomes new challenges – on and off the job. We hope her story will inspire older individuals everywhere to stay active and continue to make valuable contributions to the workplace and to their communities.”
The daughter of Russian immigrants, Ms. Gordon attributes her longevity to eating well, exercising and maintaining a good sense of humor. She advises young people who are just entering the workforce to “try to learn new techniques, listen and be kind to co-workers.”
Ms. Gordon was married to Robert “Merle” Gordon, who passed away in 1969. She has four children, seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Experience Works also recognizes 104-year-old Emilio Navarro, from Ponce, Puerto Rico, as
America’s Outstanding Oldest Worker male honoree for 2010. A former professional baseball player, Mr. Navarro still works 30 hours a week as comptroller of the company he founded in
1952, Schuffley Alley. He was honored during a ceremony in Ponce on August 5, 2010.
Now in its twelfth year, the search for America’s Outstanding Oldest Workers is sponsored by
Experience Works, a nonprofit organization which helps mature workers enter the workforce, secure more challenging positions, move into new careers or supplement their incomes. Previous winners include a 101-year-old attorney, a 100-year-old journalist, a 101-year-old engineer, a
100-year-old business owner, a 103-year-old real estate developer, a 102-year-old professor, a
100-year old architect and a 104-year-old entrepreneur.