City of St. Petersburg Appoints New LGBTQ+ Liaison

Mayor’s Office Team Member Eric Vaughan Succeeds Jim Nixon

April 12, 2024 - The City of St. Petersburg announces the appointment of Eric Vaughan as the City's new LGBTQ+ Liaison. Vaughan succeeds Jim Nixon, who has served in the role for seven years. Vaughan's experience includes serving as LGBTQ+ Liaison for the Department of Education in New York City. He joined the Office of the Mayor as a Communications and Community Engagement Coordinator in May 2023.

"Eric Vaughan brings strong connections within the LGBTQ+ community, both locally and nationally, to the City's LGBTQ+ Liaison role," said Mayor Kenneth T. Welch. "I am confident that he will build on Jim Nixon's efforts to foster an environment of acceptance and support across St. Petersburg. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to creating a city where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can thrive."

Vaughan has held various roles at local organizations, including, Big Brother Big Sisters of Pinellas County, USF St. Petersburg and Community Tampa Bay. He has volunteered on the board of several organizations including Barbershop Club, The Studio@620 and The Modern Griot Corporation. Additionally, he is a graduate of Leadership St. Pete 2022 and serves on LSP's planning committee. During his time at NYC's Department of Education, Vaughan held the title of Associate Director of LGBTQ Programs and Policy prior to returning to St. Petersburg.

During his tenure as LGBTQ+ Liaison, Nixon managed the city's Human Rights Council Municipal Equality Index, a comprehensive assessment based on non-discrimination laws, municipal services, law enforcement, and leadership on LGBTQ+ equality. Under his stewardship, St. Petersburg achieved a perfect score of 100 for seven consecutive years, reflecting St. Petersburg's continuous commitment to inclusivity and equality. Nixon also led initiatives in collaboration with both St. Pete Pride and Metro Inclusive Health, including the successful reopening and management of the LGBTQ Welcome Center. Nixon will continue to serve as the City's Director of the St. Pete Service Center.