Ms. Jordan served in the United States Air Force for twenty years. She retired in 1977 with the rank of major. In 1992, Ms. Jordan was elected state representative for District 16, which she held for two terms. While in the State Legislature, Ms. Jordan served as chair of the Natural Resources and Agriculture Committee. During her distinguished military career, she received the USAF Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the USAF Outstanding Unit Award with three Oak Leaf Clusters, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with four Bronze Service Stars, and the Meritorious Service Medal. Other honors include the University of Arizona Alumni Association Distinguished Citizen Award and the American Legion Distinguished Legislator Award.

Ms. Jordan received a bachelor of arts in chemistry from Queens College in Charlotte, North Carolina, and a bachelor of science in animal science from the University of Arizona with additional postgraduate coursework in animal physiology.