Inside the Riley Fellows DLI Leadership Program

Executive Director Olivia Jones recently graduated from Furman University’s Diversity Leaders Initiative (DLI) — a flagship leadership development program housed within the Riley Institute. She was joined by our board member, Lakesha Jeffries, who also completed the program this year. Since its founding in 2003, DLI has equipped more than 2,900 mid-career professionals in South Carolina with the skills and networks to drive community progress through inclusivity and collaborative action.

1) Rigorous, Multi-Month Curriculum

Over several months, participants engage in interactive sessions, scenario-based learning, and experiential workshops designed to deepen understanding of diversity, equity, inclusion, and leadership practices.

2) Community Action Project: Real-world Application

As a capstone, each cohort collaborates on a “Community Action Project” tailored to address local challenges.

Olivia’s cohort team developed Practice Makes Professional—a mock interview and job-readiness project. This effort, executed in partnership with the City of Columbia, culminated in a networking luncheon where students could ask questions and build connections. Key elements included:

• Job Interview Preparation: Students and employers received materials on interviewing “best practices.”
• Mock Job Interviews: Students participated in real-world job interview scenarios, receiving immediate feedback to sharpen their professional presence.
• Networking Experience: A structured lunch event allowed students to meet professionals, ask career-related questions, and practice workplace etiquette.

Olivia’s team created an immersive experience that bridged the gap between education and employment.

Graduates of DLI don’t just leave with a certificate; they become Riley Fellows, joining a statewide community of change makers committed to systemic and lasting impact. Olivia’s project stands as a testament to the program’s influential model—combining leadership training with direct community benefit.

We’re proud to see dynamic leaders like Olivia Jones and Lakesha Jeffries graduate from the DLI program, bringing valuable insights and resources back to communities across South Carolina. Through initiatives like Practice Makes Professional, DLI graduates are making a meaningful impact—and their work is just beginning to unfold.