Stories We Tell: David Wilkins Legislative and Civic Awards Dinner

The Riley Institute at Furman University’s Wilkins Legislative and Civic Leadership Awards Dinner was created to honor David H. Wilkins, former ambassador to Canada and speaker of the S.C. House of Representatives.  One of South Carolina’s true statesmen and leaders, Wilkins left an indelible mark on the state’s political landscape.

Each year, the event honors the leadership, courage, vision, and integrity of one South Carolina legislator and one South Carolina civic leader.  At the dinner, the Riley Institute bestows the annual Wilkins Award for Excellence in Legislative Leadership and the Wilkins Award for Excellence in Civic Leadership on two deserving individuals.  Held on the first night of the legislative session and attended by hundreds of political, community and business leaders, the event promotes citizenship, public service, and bipartisan governing.