LINCOLN, Neb. — After 27 years on the Nebraska Supreme Court, and as the first woman to serve on the state’s high court, Justice Lindsey Miller-Lerman’s tenure came to a close at the end of October.

Gov. Jim Pillen on Monday introduced her successor, appointing the Honorable Derek Vaughn as the new associate justice representing District 2.

Vaughn was previously appointed by Pillen to the Fourth Judicial District in 2023.

“It is the combination of court experience, community involvement and incredible reputation and commitment to our state that makes Justice Vaughn a great choice to serve on our state Supreme Court,” Pillen said.

A graduate of the University of Nebraska College of Law, Vaughn spent 14 years in the Douglas County Attorney’s Office before becoming a judge in Omaha in 2013.

Vaughn’s family has a strong legacy of public service. His father was the first African American game management agent for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the first African American U.S. Marshal for the District of Nebraska. His mother is a longtime educator.

“I always grew up with outstanding role models,” Vaughn said.

Vaughn has also served as an adjunct instructor at Midland University and the former Dana College. With his appointment, all seven seats on the Nebraska Supreme Court are now filled.