We are deeply saddened to share that one of the founding members of our Board of Directors, Dan Jordan, PhD, passed away on March 21.
Dan was well known for his 23-year tenure as president of the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, which owns and operates Monticello. During his time there, the foundation created a more than $200-million endowment, built the Thomas Jefferson library, purchased historic Montalto mountain, established the Thomas Jefferson Parkway and walking trial, and began countless educational programs.
Upon his retirement in 2008, Dan became a founding partner of Bryan and Jordan Consulting, LLC. Based in Richmond, Virginia, the firm specializes in planning, governance, financial, and human resource matters for historical organizations, museums, libraries, and educational institutions.
Dan was best known as a transformational leader, celebrated educator, and public historian, who served with distinction on numerous public service boards and commissions. He was a scholar in residence at the University of Virginia, a professor of history at Virginia Commonwealth University, and an author.
He was a member of the governing board of the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, a former Vice Chairman of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, a former Chairman of the National Park Service Advisory Board, and served on planning groups for Independence Hall, the White House, and the US Capitol.
For his astounding contributions and service, Dan received the United States Department of the Interior’s Public Service Award, its highest honor to a private citizen, and the Commonwealth’s “Outstanding Virginian” award in 2006.
He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Mississippi and his PhD from the
University of Virginia, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa.
Dan is survived by his wife of more than 60 years, Lou, along with three children and six grandchildren. Both Dan and Lou have been steadfast supporters of focused ultrasound technology and the Foundation since its inception. Earlier this month, the Foundation named its internship program in honor of Dan and Lou. The Dan and Lou Jordan Focused Ultrasound Internship Program encompasses the Foundation’s local and global internship programs and will play a pivotal role in providing aspiring young professionals with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research, gain valuable hands-on experience, and contribute to the transformation of patient care through focused ultrasound.
“From the early days of the Foundation, Dan was an immeasurable source of advice, guidance, and inspiration to the entire community – the team, Board, Council, and donors,” recalled Foundation Chairman Neal F. Kassell, MD. “The success of the Foundation is in large part as a result of his efforts. Dan was the perfect colleague and friend. His memory will shine bright and continue to be the guiding light for all of the lives he touched.”