This month we posthumously recognize Dr. Mercedes Richards, Professor of Astronomy and Astrophysics, Penn State University. Dr. Richards was fascinated by Algol binary star systems, and her research accomplishments included being a pioneer in the use of doppler tomography to study mass transfer between stars in these systems. Colleague Dr. Chris Palma shares, "I think if you were to ask her, she would say that some of her most important work was to support everyone in their interest in astronomy. We heard over and over again what an outstanding mentor she was, and in particular, she always looked out for people she considered to be “underdogs”. She had a profound impact on the careers of many scientists (including my own), and worked hard to create and support programs for underrepresented students in astronomy and other STEM fields." Dr. Richards passed away on February 3, 2016.