Theresa Richardson began serving as a City of Richland councilmember in January 2022 and was selected as Mayor Pro Tem in January 2023 and Mayor in 2024. Previously, she also served on the Economic Development Commission. 

Theresa is a retired 10-year CEO of Habitat for Humanity 2004-2012; 2017-2019.  In that position she has had the great privilege to work alongside many talented, diverse, and innovative thought-leaders from all walks of life.  Together, they pushed toward the goal of starting one home a month and welcoming up to 4000 volunteers annually to the worksite. Prior to Habitat, she founded and ran a national fundraising consulting company known as Development Solutions. 

Between 2013-2017 Theresa assisted her husband in The Netherlands with the formation of NewCold Cooperatief, UA, a global leader in automated cold storage.

Active in the community, Theresa has served as a volunteer and/or a board member for the following:  New Heights Church Vision Team, CASA Guardian Ad Litem, Columbia Basin Non-Profit Association; Boys & Girls Club, Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce, Union Gospel Mission, and Liberty Christian School. 

She is a graduate from Washington State University, BA English/Business 1992; Cum laude - Commencement distinguished speaker; and is a Certified Development Professional.

Married 45 years, Theresa and her husband have raised three sons who also call Richland home.  They have a profound appreciation for this community and its unique natural beauty and culture.  In her spare time, Theresa and her family love to golf.  She’s excited to encourage the next generation to experience Richland as the place we want to work and live.