With so much change over the years, it’s important to recognize those who came before us. Today, we’re proud to spotlight one of our remarkable alumni — Diana Richards.
During her time at Mohawk, Diana was an active member of the Girl Scouts and loved spending time with friends. Whether it was sleepovers, hangouts, or dancing, those were moments she cherished most. “Dancing was important! We loved to dance. If I recall, there were even dance breaks during school where we could dance in the gym,” Diana recalled. Back then, American Bandstand, Elvis Presley, Ricky Nelson, Big Bopper, and other Rock ’n’ Roll favorites set the soundtrack for their fun.
Reflecting on her school days, Diana noted how much has changed over the years, especially in how students express themselves. When she attended school, poodle skirts, bobby socks, and saddle shoes were the height of fashion.
Diana’s first official job came at age 17, working for Bessemer Cement Company in the Personnel Department. There, she handled everything from insurance claims and hiring to union meetings and workplace injuries. Later, she chose to step away from her career to raise her family, but her drive and creativity never stopped.
In 1991, after a major life transition, Diana turned an everyday problem into an innovative idea. She invented the Vacuum Helpline, a service for employees to report issues with on-site vacuum cleaners — an idea that sparked her entrepreneurial journey.
Today, Diana Richards is the CEO of a multi-million-dollar company, which has grossed over $100 million since its founding. She credits much of her success to the lessons and values she learned during her school years.
Diana fondly remembers Mr. Book as her favorite teacher, not just for his instruction but for his empathy and understanding. “Now, after high school,” she says, “I see how every subject has value — history teaches stories of success and failure, gym emphasizes the importance of exercise, and subjects like biology and algebra build lifelong skills.”
Her advice to current students:
“It’s not about what is happening around you; your future depends on what’s happening inside your thoughts. Always talk positively about yourself.”
And her final message to the Mohawk community:
“Always have integrity — be honest and consistent in your actions, and demonstrate strong moral and ethical principles, even when no one is watching.”
