Leadership Roles

Minority (Democratic) Deputy Whip (2024-2026)

Biographical Information

City of Residence: Tallahassee
Occupation: Nonprofit Founder
Spouse: Barry Richard of Miami, Florida
Child(ren): Jonathan Richard, Jeremy Richard, Danielle Richard, Todd Richard, Brooke Richard, Dave Richard
Grandchild(ren): Sophia Richard, Jonah Richard
Education: Florida State University, BA, Communications, BS, Psychology, 1993
Born: Jacksonville FL
History: Husband, Barry Richard, Florida House of Representatives, 1974-1978
Religious Affiliation: Baptist, Jewish
Recreational Interest: reading, walking, yoga

Legislative Service

Elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2020, reelected subsequently

Affiliations

Leon County Schools Adult & Community Education Advisory Board
Tallahassee Community College Eagle Connections Program, Business Liaison Committee
Anti-Defamation League Regional Board member, 2018-present
Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce, member, 2018-present
Rotary Club of Tallahassee, member, 2017-present
Capitol Women’s Network, President, 2011, member, 2005-present
Keys to Exceptional Youth Success, Founder and Chair, 2005-present
Independence Landing, Founder, 2017
Twenty-Five Women You Need to Know, Class of 2013
Children's Home Society Central Division Board, 2004-2013, Advocacy Committee Chair, 2010-2012, Board Chair, 2008-2010, Board Treasurer, 2006-2008, Chef's Sampler Fundraiser Chair, 2005
Tallahassee Community College Foundation Board, 2010-2012
Children's Home Society State Foundation Board, 2009-2012
Holland & Knight LLP, Opening Doors for Children Tallahassee, Coordinator, 1995-1998
Big Brothers/Big Sisters Board member, Big Sister, 1995-1997

Highlights

Reclaim the Land Award of Excellence for Community Leadership
Tallahassee Community College Hall of Fame, 2018
Innovative Community Engagement Earned Legacy Award, 2018 Woman of the Year Deerfield Beach Democratic Club, 2013
Girl Scouts of America, Leon Woman of Distinction Youth & Social Services Award, 2011
Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce Pace Setter Finalist, Distinguished Leadership Award, 2011
Children's Home Society Child Advocate of the Year Central Division Award, 2010
Legislative Assistant to Representative Brian Rush, 1986-1988
Legislative Assistant to Representative Mark Gibbons, 1985-1986
Legislative District Secretary to Senator Mattox Hair, 1984