Furman's Institutes

Opening Doors to the World

It’s unusual for a liberal arts and sciences university to have an externally facing institute. Furman has four, where students gain valuable real-world experience in community initiatives, research, outreach and more. They work hand-in-hand with faculty and staff experts who are connected locally, nationally and internationally.

Programs and Connections 

Each institute manages its own centers, programs and initiatives, many with efforts branching into the Greater Greenville community, connecting Furman students with residents and organizations who are leading efforts to solve community challenges. Furman’s institutes also bring thousands of community members to campus each year, providing lifelong learning opportunities for residents interested in issues around community health, sustainability, innovation, government and education. Additionally, the institutes have partnered with Furman Alumni FAN Clubs to bring this programming to dozens of cities across the country.

Start a human butterfly effect

Shi Institute for Sustainable Communities

What if your research could set something big in motion? A bottomless think tank where students, educators and leaders work to address the largest sustainability questions facing humanity, the Shi Institute is a catalyst where students are offered a chance to contribute to world-changing research. Just how important is this to us? Over two-thirds of Furman courses integrate sustainability content.

You have followers. But are you a leader?

The Richard W. Riley Institute

Want to become a thought leader? Twitter is one place to start. But learning from one of President Clinton’s top deputies is another. Named for two-time South Carolina governor and former U.S. Secretary of Education Dick Riley, the Richard W. Riley Institute of Government, Politics and Public Leadership cultivates leaders among students, and broadens perspectives about issues critical to progress in South Carolina and beyond.

How to take the pulse of an entire neighborhood

Institute for the Advancement of Community Health

There are challenges that face patients beyond the physician’s office. Who better to tackle those than you? With the development of the Institute for the Advancement of Community Health, students have opportunities for medical and health collaboration across campus and community partners, as well as internship, research and mentorship opportunities on issues like diversity and food security.

Innovate and change the world

The Hill Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Have an idea that you think will solve a problem in our society but don’t know what to do with it? Do you identify as a creative, innovator, disruptor, or someone who challenges the status quo? Are you an entrepreneur seeking a supportive community and resources? If so, be sure to contact with The Robert and Margaret Hill Institute for Innovation & Entrepreneurship. Through workshops, pitch competitions, boot camps, speaker series, internships, mentoring and co-working space, we will equip you to transform your community and change the world.

Support Furman's Institutes

Furman’s Institutes are the cornerstone of The Furman Advantage and bring engaged learning opportunities to students. This work is only possible with the financial support of alumni and Friends of Furman. A gift of any size has an immediate impact on our students and prepares them for a world where their possibilities are limitless.

Have a question regarding Furman?

Have a question regarding Furman?

Connect with us for answers to your questions regarding our institutes or otherwise.