By By Steve Swogetinsky/The Meridian Star
July 3, 2001
The Riley Foundation has announced almost $1.5 million in grants to endow and operate the newly formed Montgomery Institute. Now the new board of the institute must come up with a way to realize the facility's full potential.
The board held its first meeting Monday evening.
The Riley Foundation's contribution will come in $200,000 annual installments over the next five years. Another $455,000 will be donated over the next five years in decreasing increments for operational expenses.
During Monday's press conference, officials emphasized that the institute will be a non-political entity created to inform and train local leaders. The institute's service area includes Meridian and Lauderdale County, and all counties that touch Lauderdale County. A board member has been chosen from each county.
Bill Crawford was introduced as the president of the institute, which will now be his full-time job. He has resigned his position as head of the WEBB Center at Meridian Community College.
Steve Swogetinsky is regional editor of The Meridian Star. Call him at 693-1551, ext. 3217, or e-mail him at sswogetinsky@themeridianstar.com.