The new Welcome Center director will also serve on the city’s Human Rights Commission.

Austin City Council unanimously approved Sophia Ponce to fill the vacancy during their Tuesday meeting.

Ponce, who started at the center on Aug. 24, said she is excited for the opportunity.

“I think it’s a great idea,” she said of serving on the commission. “It’s a great way to see the community.”

The Human Rights Commission is a mandated organization that works to promote diversity and an inclusive community.

Ponce is replacing Sue Stevenson, who left the board earlier this year. The term will end at the end of the year, at which time Mayor Tom Stiehm plans to reappoint Ponce.

Ponce, who is from Plainview, Texas, has said she is looking forward to her role in Austin.

“I’m here 100 percent,” she said. “My main goal is to make the Welcome Center huge.”