Michael Richards Plans His Retirement
Perhaps no one has earned the chance to put his feet up and rest more than Michael Richards, who has served as chief financial officer at St. Stephen’s since 2004. Throughout his tenure, he has shepherded St. Stephen’s to its highest level of financial security in our 68-year history.
Richards came to St. Stephen’s from Episcopal High School in Houston, where he served as the chief financial officer for 21 years. “I was looking for a new challenge in my professional career,” he said. “I found that challenge at St. Stephen’s.” In addition to overseeing the school’s daily financial and facilities issues, Richards was school liaison to the board of trustees’ finance, campus and audit committees. He also served on the St. Stephen’s Endowment Fund Board and the retirement plan and financial aid committees.
“Michael has been disciplined and deliberate in strengthening the school's financial standing,” said Head of School Chris Gunnin. “He also has worked devotedly to oversee building projects, campus security, dining hall operations, school transportation and campus maintenance. A steadfast and loyal leader, he has supported the student experience, strengthened our living and learning community, and positioned the school for success for generations to come.”
“I thrived on the challenges facing me,” Richards said. “But in any workplace, it always boils down to the people you work with and the personal relationships that develop over time. Naturally, I took pride in our accomplishments and the progress we were making, but the enduring enjoyment comes from the lasting relationships you build with the people you work closely with.”
According to Richards, his retirement plans are pretty simple: spend more time with his wife of 40-plus years, dote on his four grandchildren, and continue to wreck both his kitchen with his cooking and the golf course with his game. “I will never shoot my age,” he concluded, “but would be satisfied if I could develop some level of consistency with my shots.”
The full school community gathered in Chapel to honor Richards on May 21, 2018. We wish him a happy and healthy retirement!
Address: 6500 St. Stephen's Dr., Austin, TX 78746
Phone: (512) 327-1213
Phone: (512) 327-1213