The board of directors of the Austin Area Urban League has announced the election of Jeffrey K. Richard as the organization's president and chief executive officer. Richard has served since 2002 as vice president of education for the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce, a post he will leave early in April to accept the Urban League position.

"Jeffrey Richard was the pre-eminent candidate from among more than 30 persons considered in our national search beginning last fall," said Bobbie Barker, chair of the Urban League board. "We're so fortunate to have found such a highly qualified candidate with thorough knowledge of Austin and a proven record of success in this community, as well as extensive experience in education, financial development and helping achieve opportunities for people."

A Fort Worth native, Richard holds a master of public policy degree in urban economic development from Harvard University, where he was an Alfred P. Sloan Public Policy Fellow. He also holds a bachelor of science degree with majors in economics and political science from Texas Christian University, where he graduated with high honors and was a member of Phi Beta Kappa.

"In so many ways this is a dream job and I am honored to join this exciting organization," said Richard. "I see bright prospects in partnerships between the Austin area and the Urban League, which share a passion for economic opportunity for all persons in our community."

Richard is a former principal in a management consulting and accounting firm and a former senior staff assistant to long-time U.S. House Speaker Jim Wright. He is married and he and his wife, Naomi, have one daughter, Rebecca.