 It was named after Thomas Jefferson, who sent a letter of thanks to the college and a portrait of himself as a gift.John McMillan served as first President of the Board of Trustees; during the first 25 years of Jefferson College's existence, McMillan served in almost every possible role, including acting Principal and Vice-Principal of the college, professor, college pastor, and treasurer.Of the 21 original board members, only 8 were clergymen.