Leadership Changes for The Riley Institute

Dear Colleagues,

In the fall of 1999, Furman launched an institute focused on creating social and economic progress across the state. The institute was named for one of the university’s most esteemed alumni, Richard Riley. Don Gordon, who had joined the faculty of the Department of Politics and International Affairs in 1969, was chosen as its executive director.

In 2009, Don chose Jacki Martin to be deputy director of The Riley Institute. Together, they built a team of unmatched talent and expertise in policy issues affecting South Carolina. With more than 40 programs and statewide events, The Riley Institute impacts the lives of many South Carolinians, extended Furman’s name to every corner of the state, and provided priceless leadership experience to hundreds of students. Its impact is matched by its reputation as an institute of integrity and excellence, thanks to Don and Jacki.

After leading The Riley Institute for 25 years, Don has decided to spend the next year in an advisory role. Just weeks ago, we celebrated Jacki’s retirement after 15 years. Please join me in thanking them for their remarkable service to Furman and to the people of South Carolina.

We are fortunate that Bryan Boroughs, a 2002 Furman graduate, has accepted the position of executive director of the institute. He will begin Oct. 1.

Bryan has deep experience in the non-profit and public policy arenas. He also worked for the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions as an investigative counsel. He has spent the past 10 years working for the Institute for Child Success in Greenville, a policy center focused on early child development, where he is the chief operating officer and general counsel. He was also a Riley Institute DLI graduate.

Please see our news story for more.

Thanks again to Don and Jacki. We are indebted to them. I’m excited to see how Bryan expands and elevates their success.

Warmly,

Elizabeth