The Riley Institute

Our vision: A thriving society where every person—regardless of background—can access a transformative education, engage in meaningful work, and shape the future of their community.

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A Quarter Century of Excellence

For 25 years, the Riley Institute has been bringing high quality programming to Furman’s campus and beyond. Thousands of professionals state- and nationwide have taken part in our fellowships and applied their new skills and knowledge in their local communities. Even more Furman students and community members have taken part in our public policy events, hearing from guest speakers like Bill and Hillary Clinton, Newt Gingrich, Madeleine Albright, Chuck Todd, Al Gore, Christine Todd Whitman, John Glenn, Mike McConnell, Henry Louis Gates, Jr., and Tom Brokaw.

Support Us for the Next 25
  • 3,000+
    Riley Fellows
    graduates of our renowned Diversity Leaders Initiative
  • 399
    rising Furman freshman participants in Advantage Scholars
    forming a community of scholars
  • $10.6
    Million
    generated to date in contracts through our research consultancy

Institute News

Riley Institute Launches South Carolina Education Data Tool to Expand Access to School Performance Insights

For Information: Kelly Gregory Director for Public Education Projects and Partnerships The Riley Institute at Furman University [email protected] Online version of story   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Riley Institute Launches South Carolina Education Data Tool to...

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The Riley Institute and the Power of Leadership Intervention

by Melissa Charles Not every student experiences school in the same way, and oftentimes, public education works best when it meets students where they are. The Riley Institute for Public Policy and Civic Leadership is...

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