Alumni Spotlight

From UT Tyler to the Texas Capitol

A Career Built on Service

Kevin Richmond is a political science and history alumnus. Since graduating in 2024, Kevin has worked on grassroots campaigns and currently serves as the legislative director for Representative Denise Villalobos from House District 34.   

Kevin chose The University of Texas at Tyler because of its proximity to home and the recommendation of friends. He initially started at UT Tyler as a history major, intending to pursue a career in academia. Kevin later realized that, although small, the political science program at UT Tyler had an amazing faculty. With the help of advisors, he was able to double major in political science and history.  

Kevin took away things from the program he never knew he needed. The most noteworthy was how to look at data and solve problems logically. He took two methodology classes, one for political science and one for history, which helped him think through difficult problems. Critical thinking skills are an emphasis of the political science program at UT Tyler. Professors like Dr. Sterken go out of their way to facilitate discussion in classrooms. Dr. LeBlanc emphasizes the importance of defending one's position.   

He shares how the political science department is social amongst the students and faculty. The social environment helped him develop skills he uses in politics, describing it as a social business. Kevin advises any current and potential students to take advantage of faculty office hours and in-class discussions to make the most of their education. He believes the conversations taught him more than any curriculum could.   

Kevin attributes personal connections with staff as the reason he was able to get his start in politics. His first foot in the door was doing grassroots work for a State House campaign. Now working as a legislative director, he believes it’s the most important and fulfilling work he's ever done as he makes a difference in people’s lives through policy.