Michael Richards

Dr. Michael Richards of West Des Moines brings a broad knowledge of business management and medical integration to the Board of Regents.

Until his retirement in 2017, he was managing partner of Quatro Composites, a company specializing in manufacturing carbon composite equipment for the aerospace and medical industries.  He also service as chairman of MEDTEC, a medical services and equipment company.

Dr. Richards earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Iowa in 1970 and his M.D. from the University of Iowa College of Medicine in 1974.  After graduation, he was in practice in Des Moines for more than 20 years. He also served as the first chief medical officer at Iowa Health System (now UnityPoint Health).

Dr. Richards and his wife, Ann, are active supporters and contributors to medical and educational charities and foundations. He has served as president of the Dowling Foundation, and served on the Board and Executive Committee of the Minnesota Children’s Hospital in Minneapolis until joining the Board of Regents.

Dr. Richards was appointed to the Board of Regents on May 6, 2016, by Governor Branstad to fill the unexpired term of Mary Andringa. He was elected the 22nd President of the Board of Regents, on May 1, 2017, and has be re-elected Board President in 2018, 2020 and 2022. He was reappointed to the Board by Governor Reynolds on April 16, 2021.  His term expires on April 30, 2027.

Appointed: 2016
Reappointed: 2021
Term Expires: 2027