Vernon Jordan was born on August 15, 1935 in Georgia. He grew up in a racially segregated society, which fueled his passion for civil rights and social justice. After graduating from Indiana's DePauw University, he pursued a law degree at Howard University School of Law. It was during his time at Howard that Jordan became involved in the civil rights movement, working with fellow activists to challenge discriminatory practices.
One of Jordan's most notable cases was his collaboration with civil rights attorney Donald L. Hollowell on a lawsuit against the University of Georgia for its racially discriminatory admissions policies. This landmark case helped pave the way for desegregation in education and set the stage for Jordan's future advocacy work.
Throughout his career, Jordan held executive positions with several prominent civil rights organizations, including the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the National Urban League, and the United Negro College Fund. His strategic leadership and unwavering dedication to equality and justice made him a respected figure in the civil rights community.
In 1980, Vernon Jordan survived a murder attempt in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Serial killer Joseph Paul Franklin confessed to shooting Jordan, adding a terrifying chapter to Jordan's already remarkable life story. Despite the trauma of the incident, Jordan remained steadfast in his commitment to fighting for equality and justice.
Jordan's personal life was marked by love and loss. His first marriage to Shirley Yarbrough resulted in the birth of a daughter, Vickee. Tragically, Shirley passed away, leaving Jordan to navigate the complexities of single parenthood. In time, he found love again and married Ann Dibble Jordan, an executive at Revlon.
During the early 1990s, Vernon Jordan served as an advisor to President Bill Clinton, bringing his wealth of experience and expertise to the highest levels of government. His legacy as a civil rights leader and advocate for social change lives on, inspiring future generations to continue the fight for equality and justice.
Vernon Jordan's impact on the civil rights movement cannot be overstated. His tireless dedication to challenging injustice and championing equality serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of activism and advocacy. As we reflect on his life and accomplishments, we are reminded of the ongoing struggle for a more just and equitable society.