Sarah Jordan in memory of Robert “Bob” B. Jordan III (1932-2020
Robert “Bob” B. Jordan III (Forestry ‘54) believed strongly in his idea of public service, the best of all leadership, with emphasis on service. He served North Carolina for 50 years, including elected positions in 1976-1989 as a state senator and as lieutenant governor. Among his many accomplishments, Jordan’s history of public service is highlighted by continuing, high-impact efforts to improve economic and educational opportunities for the state’s citizens. His long life of service to North Carolina was recognized with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the state’s highest service award granted by a governor. In addition, Governor Roy Cooper officially proclaimed November 10, 2020, as “a day in recognition of Robert B. Jordan” in honor of Jordan’s many examples of dedication to the people of North Carolina.
Jordan is also remembered for his leadership in business and in the forestry industry. After two years in the U.S. Army, he returned from Europe as a captain. From that time on, he led Jordan Lumber & Supply, Inc. and its affiliates until 2020, when his son, Robert, succeeded him as Chief Executive Officer and President. Under Bob’s leadership, Jordan Lumber won national awards for innovation and for protecting natural resources. The company is one of the largest privately owned lumber companies in the nation. His interest in caring for our natural resources and in growing a better pine tree is evident.
Bob Jordan was a prominent volunteer and supporter of NC State and the University of North Carolina (UNC) system. Over the years, he served as a trustee for NC State and UNC-Charlotte and participated in the creation of the UNC System Board of Governors. The NC State College of Natural Resources honored Jordan as a distinguished alumnus in 1979, and its Jordan Hall honors the family and their philanthropy. Jordan received NC State’s highest non-academic honor, the Watauga Medal, and its highest award for philanthropy, the Menscer Cup. He was also awarded honorary doctoral degrees from NC State and UNC-Charlotte.
Bob’s wife of 61 years, Sarah Jordan, established this endowment in his honor to provide extraordinary opportunities for future generations of natural resource leaders. The goal of the Extraordinary Opportunity Scholarship Initiative is to help students attend NC State without the burden of financial debt and with the freedom to follow their dreams.