Jerald "JJ" Jordan: Visionary Leader - August 2014
Chapel Hall
Jerald “JJ” Jordan, ’48 and Gallaudet’s Visionary Leader for August, is remembered for his charisma and exceptional enthusiasm for deaf sports, which took him around the world. Throughout his life and professional career, he was dedicated to advancement of international deaf athletes and deaf sport competition.
An anecdote exemplifies Jordan’s charismatic approach to life. He was one of 11 men who participated as research subjects in motion sickness experiments in the 1960s for the U.S. Navy and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). One requirement included drinking 16 ounces of vodka in 10 minutes while electrodes measured his involuntary eye movements.
In a 1962 Washington Post article, he was quoted as dryly remarking, “I Jordan was a sports enthusiast and had deep knowledge about the field of science and mathematics. After graduating from Gallaudet, he worked in the printing industry for two Washington, D.C.-area newspapers.
After 11 years in the printing industry, he switched gears and returned to Gallaudet as a professor. Jordan originally taught in the science and mathematics department, but in his 30 years of service with the University,
didn’t understand the reason for the test, but it was thoroughly delightful.”community and a selection committee of students, faculty,...
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jearald jordan professional image
jerald jordan torch run
In 1996, Jordan was honored to carry the Olympic torch through Gallaudet’s campus on route to the Opening Ceremony in Atlanta, Georgia.
Visionary leaders: Fifteen extraordinary Gallaudet alumni
Fifteen extraordinary Gallaudet alumni were chosen to be honored each month as Gallaudet University celebrated its sesquicentennial anniversary entitled, Celebrating 150 Years of Visionary Leadership, from September 2013 to November 2014. These individuals were nominated by the community and a selection committee of students, faculty,...
jerald jordan in classroom
Jordan demonstrates a teletype machine.
Gallaudet in 1991 and received an honorary degree from the University in 1994. His wife, Shirley – a former Gallaudet Hearing and Speech professor – was by his side when he died in 2008.
Photos courtesy Gallaudet Archives
Gallaudet’s 150th celebration is made possible by generous
jerald jordan portrait
jerald jordan flying
