ALBEMARLE COUNTY, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) -- Dr. Daniel Jordan, former President and CEO of the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, passed away on March 21 at the age of 85.

Dr. Jordan is known for his accomplishments including raising over $210 million dollars, aiding the historical landmark’s preservation. Current foundation president Jane Kamensky says Dr. Jordan is the most consequential president at the Mountaintop since Jefferson himself. 

Through growing the endowment, to bringing new initiative including the launch of slavery tours and telling the untold story of Sally Hemings, Jordan’s legacy will not be forgotten. 

“Much of the beauty you see around you and much of the challenge and much of the vision stem from this bold, courageous, passionate man,” Kamensky said. 

Dr. Jordan started at Monticello back in 1985 and headed the Thomas Jefferson Foundation until his retirement in 2008. In his time as the president, he set a new precedent.

"From the beginning, Dr. Jordan said we are going to embrace the whole history of this place,” Kamensky said. 

And that included new findings. Back in 1998, DNA testing was found that supported the relationship between Sally Hemings and Thomas Jefferson. And Kamensky says Jordan immediately took action. 

“Dan Jordan rushed into the challenge of that moment and also the possibility of that moment. I think part of his commitment as a historian and scholar was to follow evidence where it led,” Kamensky said. 

But aside from his accomplishments as president, Jordan is also remembered by his character. 

“Dan Jordan cared about every person on this staff. Sincerely cared. So many of my colleagues have said to me in the past few days, 'Dan Jordan took a chance on me,'” said Paula Newcomb, former director of development and coworker of Dr. Jordan. 

Dr. Jordan was survived by his wife and partner of more than 62 years, Lou; his brother, Joseph Lodwick Jordan; and his three children, Dan, Grace and Katherine.