The Riley Institute

Transforming the systems that shape how we learn, work, and engage in civic life.

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Secretary Dick Riley sits on stage at an event. He is wearing a black suit, checkered shirt, and glasses. He is smiling and gesturing with his hand toward fellow panelists.

A Quarter Century of Excellence

For over two decades, 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.

Our work has inspired established and emerging leaders alike to innovate and collaborate to make South Carolina better for all and has extended Furman’s reputation and reach well beyond our state.

Support Our Work Today
  • 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

Greenville City needs the penny sales tax

This op-ed was originally ran on September 22, 2026 in The Greenville News. Written by Hanaa Khan ’28

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The $328 billion opportunity sitting right under our noses

This op-ed was originally ran on September 28, 2026 in The Post and Courier. Written by Ben Thompson ’27

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People with lived experience have a story to tell. Nonprofits should listen

This op-ed was originally ran on October 30, 2025 in Greenville News. Written by Gabrielle Harvey ’27

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