Barbara Jordan

Born in Houston, Texas, Barbara Charline Jordan rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most respected voices in American politics. Her powerful oratory, particularly during the Watergate impeachment hearings, cemented her status as a national icon and a beacon of integrity. She was, to put it mildly, rather good at her job. And she didn't even need to write a tell-all memoir about it years later.

A lifelong Baptist, Jordan's spiritual home was firmly rooted in the Black church tradition, not exactly the synagogue down the street. Her identity, therefore, was unequivocally defined by her faith and her fight for civil rights within that framework, leaving the "I" column delightfully empty for our purposes.

Ancestrally speaking, Ms. Jordan's lineage traces back to African-American roots in the South, not to any of the tribes of Israel. This means the "O" score will remain as pristine and unblemished as her voting record. No ancient whispers of Abraham or Sarah here, just good old American history.

For "Kvell-worthiness," however, Barbara Jordan scored off the charts. Her groundbreaking political career, her unwavering commitment to justice, and her ability to articulate fundamental American principles with unparalleled eloquence truly brought nachas, not just to her community, but to anyone who appreciates a public servant who actually serves. A veritable mensch, even if she wasn't one of ours.