A fundamental part of that vision was providing Morgan students a quality academic information resource center, strengthening academic programs, improving fiscal management, stabilizing student enrollment, and renovating the University's buildings and infrastructure.

[5][6] During his presidency, the University added modern, state-of-the-art facilities resulting from over $200 million in capital improvements.

[5][6] During Richardson's tenure, Morgan led Maryland colleges and universities in the overall production of African American baccalaureates, and in the number of undergraduates in mathematics, science and engineering.

He has also served as a member of the Boards of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater Foundation of Maryland.

Richardson has received both a Distinguished Alumni Award and an honorary doctorate of laws from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.