Richard Joseph Riordan was an American investment banker, businessman, lawyer, politician, and Korean War veteran best known for serving as the 39th mayor of Los Angeles from 1993 to 2001. Riordan was a prominent American figure who had a varied career over the course of his life. He attended Princeton University before serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After his military service, he attended law school at the University of Michigan and went on to practice law in California. Riorda... moreRichard Joseph Riordan was an American investment banker, businessman, lawyer, politician, and Korean War veteran best known for serving as the 39th mayor of Los Angeles from 1993 to 2001. Riordan was a prominent American figure who had a varied career over the course of his life. He attended Princeton University before serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After his military service, he attended law school at the University of Michigan and went on to practice law in California. Riordan then transitioned to a career in business, founding a successful private equity firm in Los Angeles. He also served as a director of several public companies and was a member of various civic and philanthropic organizations. In 1993, Riordan turned to politics and successfully ran for mayor of Los Angeles, serving two terms from 1993 to 2001. During his tenure, he implemented a number of initiatives aimed at improving public safety, reducing traffic congestion, and attracting investment to the city. After leaving office, Riordan remained active in philanthropy and education, founding the Riordan Programs at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management, which provides mentorship and support to underrepresented students pursuing careers in business.
