Jerry Vaughan is a lifelong community builder whose decades of volunteer leadership and unwavering dedication have profoundly shaped education, service, and civic life in Grain Valley.

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.

Having grown up in Independence, Jerry 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. Over the years, he built a remarkable career spanning roles from 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. He served as president of the Kansas City chapter of the Society of Plastics Engineers.  His 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.

But it’s his volunteer spirit that truly sets Jerry apart. From the 1980s and 90s, 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, Jerry’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.

His service doesn’t stop there. Jerry sits on the Blue Springs/Grain Valley/Oak Grove Advisory Board of Truman Heartland, 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.

For Jerry, giving back has always been about surrounding himself with good people, building strong relationships, and lifting others up along the way. He 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.”

The City of Grain Valley is proud to recognize Jerry Vaughan for his decades of dedication, leadership, and countless contributions that continue to shape a stronger, more connected community for everyone.