Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird appoints new chief of staff
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird hired a new chief of staff less than 24 hours after winning her bid for reelection.
On Wednesday, Gaylor Baird announced the appointment of T.J. McDowell Jr.
He will take over for Jennifer Williams, who is stepping down from the role on May 15.
“Jennifer has been an invaluable leader and my trusted partner in public service at City Hall over the past four years,” Gaylor Baird said in a press release. “Lincoln is better for having enjoyed her smart, savvy approach to achieving meaningful results for our residents, driven by a deep love of her hometown.”
McDowell isn’t new to the mayor’s staff, as he’s been an adviser to Gaylor Baird since March 2022.
Before that, McDowell was the assistant vice chancellor for student affairs at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
He’s also previously worked at Nebraska Wesleyan University and Lincoln Public Schools.
“TJ is a recognized and accomplished leader on my staff and across the community, and we are excited for what he will deliver for Lincoln in this new role,” Gaylor Baird said. “His experience serving our community in the education and nonprofit sectors is significant. His vast network will strengthen our work to create a more successful, secure, and shared future.”
McDowell will begin his new role on May 16.
