Richard Wilson Riley was born on February 2, 1933, in Greenville, South Carolina. He was the son of Edwin and Martha Riley, and grew up in a loving and supportive family environment. Riley attended public schools in Greenville and excelled academically from a young age. He went on to study at the University of South Carolina, where he earned a degree in political science.
After graduating from college, Riley began his career in public service. He served as a member of the South Carolina House of Representatives from 1963 to 1966, and later as a member of the South Carolina Senate from 1967 to 1977. During his time in the state legislature, Riley gained a reputation for his dedication to education and progressive policies. He was a strong advocate for improving public schools and expanding access to higher education for all South Carolinians.
In 1978, Riley was elected Governor of South Carolina, serving two terms from 1979 to 1987. During his tenure, he focused on increasing funding for education, boosting economic development, and promoting racial reconciliation in the state. Riley's leadership was marked by his commitment to inclusivity and cooperation, earning him respect from both Democrats and Republicans alike.
In 1993, President Bill Clinton appointed Riley as the sixth United States Secretary of Education. As Secretary, Riley worked to implement education reforms and increase federal funding for schools across the country. He emphasized the importance of early childhood education, technology in the classroom, and closing the achievement gap among students from diverse backgrounds. Riley's tenure as Secretary of Education was widely praised for his innovative policies and dedication to improving educational outcomes.
Richard Riley married Ann Yarborough and they had four children together. Throughout his career in public service, Riley remained dedicated to his family and his values. He retired from politics in 2001, but his impact on education and public policy continues to be felt to this day. Riley's commitment to equality, opportunity, and progress has inspired generations of leaders to strive for a better future for all Americans.