I. King Jordan, a native of Glen Riddle, Pennsylvania, embarked on a remarkable journey after graduating from high school, enlisting in the U.S. Navy and serving an impressive four-year tenure.
Tragedy struck when an automobile accident left him profoundly deaf at the tender age of 21, yet this setback did not deter him from pursuing his academic aspirations.
He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Gallaudet University in 1970, followed by a Master of Arts degree in Psychology in 1971, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Psychology from the University of Tennessee in 1973.
Upon receiving his doctorate, Dr. Jordan joined the esteemed faculty of Gallaudet University's Department of Psychology, where he would later become Chair in 1983 and subsequently Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences in 1986.
In 1988, Dr. Jordan made history by becoming the first deaf president of Gallaudet University, a position he held until his resignation on December 31, 2006.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Jordan received numerous honors and appointments, including being named Vice Chair of the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities by President George Bush in 1990, and Vice Chair of the Office for Career Success by President Clinton in 1993.
In 2010, President Barack Obama appointed Dr. Jordan to serve on the Commission on Presidential Scholars, solidifying his legacy as a champion of education and disability rights.
King Jordan's remarkable journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication, perseverance, and commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
Person Biography:
King Jordan was born in Glen Riddle, Pennsylvania. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy after high school and served for four years.
