Ann Richards

Ann Willis Richards served as governor of Texas from 1991-1995, the first woman to hold that office in her own right.

Born Dorothy Ann Willis, Richards was born on September 1, 1933, in Lakeview, Texas. She received a bachelor's degree from Baylor University in 1954 and a teaching certificate from the University of Texas.

Before being elected to public office, Richards taught school and also spent many hours volunteering for political campaigns and causes. She was elected Travis County commissioner in 1976, serving until 1983. She served as state treasurer from 1983-1991, the first woman elected to statewide office in Texas in 50 years. She gained national prominence when she delivered the keynote address at the 1988 Democratic National Convention.

After serving as governor, Richards worked as a consultant and served on several corporate boards. She passed away on September 13, 2006.

Sources:

National Governors Association. (n.d.). Gov. Dorothy Ann Willis Richards. Retrieved on June 18, 2020, from https://www.nga.org/governor/dorothy-ann-willis-richards/.

Texas State Library and Archives Commission. (n.d.). Ann W. Richards. Retrieved on June 18, 2020, from https://www.tsl.texas.gov/governors/modern/page3.html#Richards.