Riley Institute 20th Anniversary Celebration

On October 22, 1999, former S.C. Governor and U.S. Secretary of Education Richard W. Riley announced the launch of the Riley Institute at Furman University. The Institute’s goal was to “bring the world to Furman” for the benefit of Furman students and the community. It hoped to attract political figures and prominent journalists, to support students’ work in Washington and overseas, and to bring scholars in residence to Furman.

Now, in its 20th year, these goals have become realities, and the Institute has matured into a thriving enterprise that benefits Furman, its students, and community members across the state. The Institute is focusing on principled leadership in its year-long 20th anniversary celebration.

October 3, 2019: A Celebration of Dick Riley

On October 3rd in Younts Conference Center, a celebration of Dick Riley’s life was held. Guest speakers, Frank Holleman, former Deputy Secretary, U.S. Department of Education, and Terry Peterson, former Chief Education Counsel, U.S. Department of Education and State of South Carolina, shared stories about Dick Riley. This celebration of Dick Riley’s life was followed by a party on Cherrydale Lawn to celebrate the Riley Institute’s 20th anniversary including a BBQ and oyster roast with music from the legendary Mac Arnold & Plate Full O’Blues.

It’s time to remember!

Take a walk down memory lane on our scrollable timeline or download this one pager about our 20th anniversary milestones.