Mayor Joe Riley with General Glenn M. Walters and the artist

Mayor Joe Riley Portrait

Mayor Joe Riley Vernissage at the Citadel on July 16th, 2024

Today was a good day. I am so proud and excited that I finally was able to share my portrait of Mayor Joe Riley, commissioned by the Citadel Foundation for the Hall of Fame in the Daniel Library, joining the amazing portrait collection of Citadel heroes and luminaries going back more than 150 years. Mayor Joe graduated from the Citadel in 1964 and is the longest serving mayor in American history, clocking forty years of service as Charleston’s kind steward.

The portrait was dedicated by The Honorable Patrick M. Duffy and General Glenn M Walters, the President of the Citadel. Judge Duffy and Mike Robinson led the Riley Portrait Committee for the Citadel. Judge Duffy, who graduated from the Citadel in 1965, had some difficulty choosing from the many fantastic stories of their time together at school and in public service. The one that stood out for me was when Mayor Riley was called to Washington by the Transportation Secretary demanding that he either return the $15 million provided by the Federal government or show him photos of the work done so far. With all the grace of the southern gentleman he is, Mayor Riley warmly but decisively invited the Secretary to come to Charleston when the project was completed. End of conversation.

Mayor Joe, Charlotte and his two sons.

My personal experience working on the portrait and getting to know Charlotte and Joe was truly a pleasure. They are the epitome of southern charm and grace. In his forty years as mayor they made Charleston a warm, inviting destination and beautiful place to live — not just an historic landmark. In my experience working with leaders in business and government I often encounter strength, boldness and charisma. In the case of Mayor Joe I can add grace and kindness to that list. I believe the sweetness we all enjoy as citizens of Charleston came from the top down. Charleston’s first couple set the tone of gentility, cooperation and inclusivity that are the hallmark of The Holy City.

Watch the Joe Riley Unveiling