Leo F. Richardson obtained an M.S. degree in biochemistry from Iowa State University in 1968. Leo joined Eli Lilly and Co., Inc. in 1968 as an animal nutritionist and was promoted to senior animal nutritionist in 1985. Richardson's most significant contribution to the industry was his role in the discovery and development of monensin for use in improving feed efficiency in beef cattle. He was responsible for developing a high-capacity system for testing the effects of compounds on in vitro VFA production. As a result of this screening system, the feed additive, Rumensin was developed for use in beef cattle. Leo is a leading authority on the mechanism of action of ionophores in livestock and has cooperated with numerous investigators on this. Leo has a high level of technical competence and is sought out as a resource by academic researchers. He is also well known in the community of practicing feedlot nutritionists, who regularly seek his advice. He has presented results of his ruminal metabolism studies at numerous ASAS and industry meetings. He is the author or coauthor of more than 20 papers and abstracts, and has written numerous articles for presentation at meetings with industry nutritionists. Richardson has been active in his church, where he has served as president of the men's club, member of the school board, and Sunday school teacher. Leo and his wife, Betty, have seven children, four girls and three boys, and nine grandchildren.