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

2027 OneSouthCarolina Award Winners Announced by The Riley Institute at Furman University

FOR INFORMATION: Claudia Winkler Director, Marketing and Communications The Riley Institute at Furman University 864.294.3368; claudia.winkler@furman.edu FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 2027 OneSouthCarolina Award Winners Announced by The Riley Institute at Furman University GREENVILLE, S.C. — The Riley...

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How Two Nonprofits Grew Their Impact in 10 Weeks 

By: Melissa Charles  The Riley Institute Summer Experience (RISE) connects Furman students with Upstate organizations working on Greenville's most pressing challenges. For 10 weeks each summer, RISE interns work full time with host organizations, building professional skills while expanding their host's capacity for...

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