“Freedom and peace are not inherent virtues; they are acquired social conditions which must be planned  and cultivated to prosper and live.  Our fine forbears could not build institutions which would guarantee them to us. Their progeny, we must do our part …”

-Herbert Frank

The Association to Unite the Democracies is the beneficiary of the Mayme and Herbert Frank Educational Trust, established in 1989 to further “education in application of the ‘federal principle’ and its best use to promote freedom and peace.”

The “Federal Principle” Defined:

What did Herbert and Mayme Frank mean by “federal principle”?

“The Federal Principle shall be construed as that political invention which makes possible a federal union. A federal union is a system of government whereby different peoples or nations retain their sovereignty each in its own state (usually a nation-state), but unite themselves as sovereign citizens of a new geographically and demographically comprehensive state which they charge with specific powers for the producing of a united policy in specific areas of government with which they choose to endow the new central government… The use of this principle made possible the creation of the United States of America and the Swiss Republic. The need now is for a union of free peoples or nations." 

-(From Herb Frank’s Will)

“The principle is one which I believe should be encouraged to be made applicable to the establishment of other union of free peoples and nations.”

-(Mayme Frank on the intent of the Educational Trust)

Mayme and Herbert Frank

Through the generous endowment established by Herb and Mayme Frank, the Frank Educational Trust continues to make a vital contribution to advancing education on the federal principles. Administered by the Association to Unite the Democracies (AUD), in collaboration with the Streit Council for a Union of Democracies, Inc. and the Ashburn Institute, the Trust awards scholarships and grants aimed at exploring the federal principle and its applications in promoting freedom and peace.

Mayme and Herb Frank were not only devoted educators and also lifelong supporters of AUD’s mission. They realized the importance of ensuring ongoing education of future generations in the ideas they shared as active members of the organization. Herb Frank wrote extensively about the idea of a federal union of democracies and about Clarence Streit’s federalism as a scalable framework for uniting individuals and nations on a voluntary basis.

Following Herbert’s passing, Mayme Frank resolved to allocate their hard-earned life savings to realize their common vision. Thus, the Mayme and Herbert Frank Educational Trust was established in 1989 with the principal aim of supporting studies of the federal principle and its use to advance freedom and peace beyond national borders.

Since its inception in 1991, the Trust has awarded more than 200 scholarships, facilitating educational opportunities and contributing to the advancement of freedom, unity, peace, and democracy through federalism. The enduring legacy of the Franks is reflected in the accomplishments of the scholars who have benefited from their generosity and vision. Under the stewardship of AUD, the Trust continues to oversee and distribute resources to deserving individuals.

Scholarships and grants are open to both U.S. and international students engaged in research and education on federalism and its scalable applications to achieving peace with freedom.

The Trust stands as a testament the Franks’ unwavering dedication to education in federalism, encapsulating their belief in its transformative potential to shape a more unified, free and peaceful world.

How to Apply

The Association to Unite the Democracies (AUD) offers scholarships to further education in the application of the ‘federal principle’ and its best use to promote freedom and peace.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Educational Background:

  • Hold an undergraduate degree in political science, history, philosophy, international relations or a related field; or

  • Be currently enrolled in a graduate program (master’s or doctoral level) in political science, history, philosophy, international relations, or a related field; or

  • Hold a Ph.D. in political science, history, international relations, or a related field.

• Project Focus: The proposed activity must directly relate to the “federal principle and its best use to promote freedom and peace” (through research, internships developing educational content, or participation in conferences and other scholarly activities).

• Recent Graduates: Those who completed their undergraduate degree within the last 5 years are eligible, provided their recent writings and professional work aligns with the scholarship’s purpose.

Application Requirements:

Applicants must submit:

• Project Proposal: A detailed plan (max 1,500 words) including:

  • Objectives and their connection to the “federal principle and its best use to promote freedom and peace”

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Outlining relevant academic and professional experience.

• Academic Transcripts: Official records from your undergraduate or graduate institution.

• Letters of Recommendation: Two letters from academic or relevant professional references familiar with your work.

• Recent Writings: While prior work in federalism is not required, including recent writings (e.g., articles, essays, or blog posts) on the topic is preferred to demonstrate engagement.
  
  Selection Criteria: Applications are judged on relevance to the “federal principle,” feasibility, potential impact, and applicant qualifications.

Contact us if you need further information!