Dr. Vaughn earned Bachelor of Science degrees in Earth sciences, physical education, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in physical geography (geomorphology and paleohydrology) from Indiana State University. He has graduate level minors in geology and statistics. He is a retired tenured Professor of Geosciences, curriculum writer, and program and laboratory director for two mapping programs: Geomatics,Applied Mapping Sciences and Geospatial Analysis. He is also a national board certified mapping scientist confirmed and registered with the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing. He has taught undergraduate and graduate courses in physical geography, geology, geomorphology, meteorology, photogeology, remote sensing (computer-assisted, digital image processing of remotely sensed imagery), geographic information systems, global positioning systems technology, geologic graphics, and geologic field studies.