He graduated magna cum laude from the University of Texas in 1967 with a BA in Plan II Honors, then went on to medical school at Baylor College of Medicine. After graduation, he served in the U.S. Navy as a Lieutenant in the Medical Corps stationed in San Diego and Balboa. Richard returned home to Houston in 1974 to finish his residency in neurosurgery. He built a distinguished career as a physician for Ben Taub General Hospital, The Methodist Hospital, Diagnostic Hospital, St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital, and Baylor College of Medicine. In addition to his professional achievements, Richard has served The University of Texas and University of Texas System as a member of the Chancellor’s Council, Littlefield Society, Phi Beta Kappa, and is a member of the Thomas Jefferson Center Advisory Council.