Vaughan to be honored as Citizen of the Year

Each year, Truman Heartland Community Foundation tasks area mayors with nominating an extraordinary citizen from their city to receive the coveted Citizen of the Year Award. These citizens have proven themselves to be instrumental in the development of strong communities and offering unwavering support to their neighbors. Grain Valley's Jerry Vaughan has been selected by Mayor Mike Todd to be honored with this year's award.

For nearly five decades, Jerry Vaughan has been a pillar of the Grain Valley community, dedicating his time, talents, and unwavering commitment to making life better for generations of students, families, and neighbors.

Vaughan grew up in Independence and first came home to the Grain Valley area in the summer of 1976 after graduating from the University of Denver and marrying his wife, Sarah. Vaughan's career has spanned from roles managing restaurants in multiple states, co-owner and production manager of a family-owned plastics plant, to owning and operating a screen printing and embroidery business. Vaughan's professional journey also included serving as director of the Chamber of Commerce and general manager of a local newspaper chain covering Lee’s Summit, Raytown, and Grandview.

Mayor Todd's nomination of Vaughan highlights the countless hours dedicated to the community. From the 1980's and 90's, when he helped run Friday night Bingo games to raise thousands of dollars for local schools, to serving nine years on the Grain Valley School Board and now leading the Grain Valley Education Foundation, Vaughan's dedication has transformed countless lives. Under his leadership, the Foundation grew from awarding three $400 scholarships in 2010 to distributing 107 scholarships totaling over $121,000 in 2025 — a true testament to his passion for expanding opportunities for local students.

Vaughan sits on the Blue Springs/Grain Valley/Oak Grove Advisory Board of Truman Heartland Community Foundation, represents Grain Valley on the University of Missouri Extension Council – Jackson County, served for over 20 years on the Grain Valley Assistance Council Board, served six years on the Community Services League Board, serves on the Advisory Board for Bright Futures/Grain Valley, is a member of the Blue Springs Rotary Club, and is an active member of Faith United Methodist Church.

Vaughan credits his recognition as Citizen of the Year to the mentors, colleagues, and community members who’ve inspired him throughout the years.

His advice to anyone hoping to make a difference: “Surround yourself with good people — people you’d want to emulate. Find mentors. Build relationships. The rest will follow.”

Grain Valley's Jerry Vaughan will be honored as Grain Valley Citizen of the Year at the Truman Heartland Community Foundation's Toast to our Towns Gala on September 20th at Westin Crown Center. Photo credit: City of Grain Valley/Grain Valley Schools