FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASESeptember 14, 2026
Brian Ligon Named 3CMA’s 2026 Communicator of the Year
DENVER, Colorado – The City-County Communications & Marketing Association (3CMA) named Brian Ligon, Community Relations Director for the City of Pasadena, Texas, its 2026 Communicator of the Year on September 9 during the opening session of the 2026 3CMA Annual Conference in Denver.
The award is 3CMA’s highest individual honor and recognizes a public-sector communicator who demonstrates exceptional leadership, creativity, innovation, professional integrity and service to both the profession and 3CMA.
“Brian represents the very best of local government communications,” said Scott Lehtonen, 3CMA Executive Director. “His creativity and willingness to embrace new ideas have transformed the way communities connect with their local governments. Just as importantly, his generosity, leadership and commitment to supporting fellow communicators have strengthened both 3CMA and our profession nationwide. We are incredibly proud to recognize Brian as the 2026 Communicator of the Year.”
A graduate of Baylor University, Ligon began his career in broadcast television, spending 17 years in production and marketing before transitioning to local government communications in 2012 with the City of Round Rock, Texas. In 2018, he became the City of Mont Belvieu’s first full-time communications professional, where he led the city’s strategic communications and public engagement efforts. His work included spearheading the marketing and public outreach for MB Link, Texas’ first municipally owned broadband internet utility.
Throughout his local government career, Ligon has built award-winning brands, expanded the use of video and emerging technology, introduced innovative resident-engagement tools and developed campaigns that strengthened community pride. His work has consistently challenged the idea that government communications must be predictable—or boring.
Ligon’s impact extends well beyond the communities he has served. He helped establish Government Communicators Day as a nationwide event, an annual observance recognizing the essential work of public-sector communications professionals. He has also been a strong advocate for communicators as integral members of emergency-response teams, sharing his experience and encouraging agencies to recognize the emotional demands placed on those who provide information and reassurance during a crisis.
Following the devastating flooding in the Texas Hill Country, Ligon helped organize volunteer public information officers to support affected communities—demonstrating the leadership, compassion and spirit of service that have defined his career.
A longtime member and leader within 3CMA, Ligon has contributed to the association through Board service, mentorship, professional development and continued advocacy for the local government communications profession. On September 11, at the conclusion of the Annual Conference, Ligon officially began his term as President of 3CMA.
For his exceptional leadership, innovative work and dedication to strengthening communities and the profession, 3CMA is proud to recognize Brian Ligon as its 2026 Communicator of the Year.
About 3CMA
The City-County Communications & Marketing Association is the nation’s leading professional organization for local government communicators. 3CMA provides professional development, networking, recognition and resources to communications and marketing professionals serving cities, counties and other public agencies throughout the United States.