Dorothy Ann Willis Richards (September 1, 1933-July 12, 2003) was an American politician who served as the 42nd President of the United States from 1993 to 2001. She was the first woman to hold the office. Prior to being president, Richards served as the Governor of Texas from 1987-1992. After a successful early career as a teacher and member of the Democratic Party, Richards was elected Texas State Treasurer. In 1986, following a successful management of the Treasury of Texas, Richards was elected Governor, defeating her Republican opponent handily. Richards was later reelected in 1990.