Nelson Mullins SC Partner Andrew Connor Selected to Become DLI Riley Fellow
Staff Report From South Carolina CEO
Tuesday, September 17th, 2019
Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough announced that Charleston partner Andrew Connor joins leaders selected from across the Lowcountry of South Carolina and surrounding area to participate in the Riley Institute at Furman University’s 14th class of Diversity Leaders Initiative (DLI). Launched in 1999, the Institute was named for former South Carolina governor, former United States Secretary of Education, and firm partner Richard W. Riley and is committed to nonpartisanship in all it does and to a rhetoric-free, facts-based approach to change.
DLI class members are identified through a rigorous process including nominations from existing Riley Fellows, application, and interview. Individuals are selected to join the class based on their capacity to impact their organizations and communities. Over the course of five months, Connor will take part in a highly interactive curriculum consisting of case studies, scenario analyses, and other experiential learning tools that maximize interaction and discussion among classmates and facilitate productive relationships. Connor will also work with other class members in one of five Capstone project groups formed to respond to real issues in the community.
“Discovering ways in which differences can strengthen our organizations is of utmost importance as we seek to grow and support a thriving economy and rich culture,” said Dr. Donald Gordon, executive director of the Riley Institute.
DLI graduates become Riley Fellows, members of a cross-sector statewide leadership network that includes CEOs of corporations, mayors, city and county council members, legislators, school superintendents, pastors and rabbis, nonprofit heads, chamber of commerce directors, and community leaders. In addition to the Lowcountry, DLI classes are selected annually in the Upstate and Midlands.
The DLI classes are expertly facilitated by Juan Johnson, an independent consultant and former Coca-Cola vice president. “DLI is unique among South Carolina’s leadership programs. In addition to the opportunity to develop new relationships and take part in positive action in their communities, participants gain deep knowledge of how to effectively manage and lead diverse workers, clients and constituents,” said Johnson.
Connor focuses his litigation practice at Nelson Mullins on complex litigation, including product liability, pharmaceutical and medical device, premises liability, toxic tort, and business litigation.