Hundreds of people gathered Thursday evening at downtown Macon’s Terminal Station to celebrate the retirement of Juanita Jordan, longtime head of the Peyton Anderson Foundation.

Jordan was called the “heart and soul” of the foundation, whose good work has made a big impact on Macon and Bibb County. Anderson “chose wisely” when he tapped Jordan to lead the foundation, said one speaker.

Former Mercer University President and current foundation trustee Kirby Godsey ended his tribute by praising Jordan and “the power of one” individual to make a difference.

Speakers included Godsey, foundation Vice President Tom Johnson, chairman of the foundation’s board Ed Sell, developer Chris Sheridan, Mike Ford of NewTown Macon, Mayor Robert Reichert and Bibb County Commission Chairman Sam Hart. Jordan’s grandchildren also honored her, presenting flowers and a picture book.

Jordan said she was overwhelmed by the many accolades and tributes. In thanking members of her staff for their years of service, she said the most important thing Peyton Anderson taught her was that “You don’t have to know how to do everything. You just have to hire the right people.”

The foundation has made over $70 million in grants to various organizations. It was formed to make charitable donations from the estate of Peyton Anderson, former owner of the Macon Telegraph.