Dr. Kristin Vance Richards

Dr. Kristin Vance Richards is the Director of Research at Empower Mississippi. In this role, she leads our research efforts and helps shape data-driven strategies that advance our work in education, work, and criminal justice.

Kristin brings deep expertise and a strong commitment to using research to drive meaningful change. A respected leader in higher education, Dr. Richards brings nearly two decades of experience in research, program development, and systems-led advocacy. She previously served as Principal Investigator for a federal Title IV-E workforce development grant. Dr. Richards has taught graduate and undergraduate courses in research methods, leadership, and finance, and has published extensively.

A native of Morgantown, West Virginia, Dr. Richards earned her Ph.D. and Certificate in Financial Planning from Florida State University, a master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania, and a bachelor’s degree from Belmont University. She is a devoted mother to two, attempts to be a weightlifter, and is the founder of wealthSHE, a financial empowerment platform for women.