A letter from our Chairman

 

Dear Friends,

 

 

A scientist would say that these, our toughest times, present unprecedented opportunity

for our nation. Think back to some similar times in our nation's history; - the cold war for example. During the cold war era, which lasted roughly 50 years, our nation experienced a great deal of growth in the areas of science, math, and technology. All kinds of ground-breaking innovations were created during this period, both intentional and accidental, these innovations happened because of the national focus on science, mathematics, and technology as necessary to our nation's competitive edge and overall security.

 

Imagine for a second where we would be without something as simple as the

microwave. Microwaves were developed accidentally by Percy Spencer, an American engineer, who was originally building magnetrons for radar sets. Or how we would communicate as much as we do today without email...a technology which was invented by Ray Tomlinson, an American programmer working on ARPANET.

 

Innovation simply does not happen in a society that does not pursue the sciences,

advanced mathematics, and technologies. Our nation's ability to compete with other countries, our ability to solve the world's most complex issues, and our ability to maintain consistent economic growth are all tied to the depth of our nation's innovation base.

 

The Franklin Foundation is dedicated to the idea that an American society focused on the

development of young scientific and technological minds is an American society that has an unlimited future with limited risk of failure.

 

Our Foundation represents a call to service for all Americans, and that call does not just

require dollars and cents. If you are a member of the science community, volunteer in our national mentorship core. If you are a technologist, help us enlighten young minds as to the importance of mathematics in the everyday work you do. If you are a parent, make a date to Google the solar system or learn about rare animals with your child. This is our generation's opportunity to have a positive impact on the generations around us, including those who haven't even joined the world yet.

 

Educational initiatives, legislative action, social programs, scholarship and grant

opportunities, and advanced research activities are all part of the balanced work the Franklin Foundation will do in the name of our nation's most prolific innovator - Mr. Benjamin Franklin. A man who's talent, vision, and intelligence should inspire all Americans to continuously lead the charge on the world stage of innovation and creation.

 

I am proud to lead the Foundation's efforts in developing new possibilities for the

sciences, advanced mathematics and technology. In 2009 we will focus on building a strong base of support, relationships with corporations and businesses that have a stake in our mission, and with local, state, and federal resources both in government and education. We will use philanthropy to create opportunity for emerging American scientists, technologists, and mathematicians as well as develop new scientific methods and technologies to assist American industry in outperforming international competition.

 

As an organization, we will operate with excellence, and provide our sponsors and

donors with annual reporting of our activities, impact, and concepts. Our Executive Board of Directors, as well as our Franklin Councils will be lead by experienced leaders in business, community, and government to ensure the organization's long-term success.

 

Through your support, and the support of like-minded Americans I believe we can and

will make an immediate difference, and have a positive impact on the future.

 

 

Warmest regards and best wishes,

 

 

Endre Jarraux Walls

Chief Executive Officer

Chairman, Executive Board of Directors (2009-2015)