Lucy Finney Jordan began her career as a ballerina and danced in the chorus of musicals. She met Glenn Jordan, a Stage Manager, and fell in love, becoming a wife and mother. Later, when Glenn became a producer, she wore the hat of Associate Producer for the Los Angeles Civic Light Opera. When Glenn passed away, she knew she still needed the theatre in her life, and applied and was accepted for the position of Field Representative for the Western Region of Actors' Equity Association.

Lucy Jordan was a friend, advisor, and confidante to principals, chorus and stage managers alike. Whether at auditions, first rehearsals, opening nights or membership meetings, her office was open to all; and her home phone number was given to, and used by, many who needed to resolve an emergency or seek an opinion. For many people in the Western Region, Lucy Jordan was the face of the union. Ms. Jordan died on May 15, 1992 and this award in her honor was created that same year.

The Lucy Jordan Award is a humanitarian award exclusive to Equity's Western Region. She brought a love of theater and a love for everyone involved to her job, as well as respect, fairness and a willingness to fight for what she believed in. She knew what it meant to make both a career and a living in theater, and that understanding was deeply appreciated by all who met her.

The award honors those who make the theatrical experience special. It can be anyone whose interaction, time and focus allows members the freedom to do their best as artists. Examples include a board member who houses out-of-town performers and stage managers, a volunteer who makes sure there is a great meal on tech days, an audience member or reviewer who actively supports the local theatrical community or a brilliant dresser who keeps everyone calm while accomplishing the impossible. The Lucy Jordan Recognition Award is not limited to Equity members.

The award is presented each year either at the January Membership Meeting or at the appropriate Liaison Area Membership Meeting following the selection of the honoree. The recipient receives an individual plaque, and his/her name is engraved on the Lucy Jordan plaque commemorating the award in the lobby of the Los Angeles Equity office. Nomination forms for the Lucy Jordan Award are available to members in good standing through Actors’ Equity Association, on the website and from audition monitors.