ABOUT

History

AIPES was launched by The Fund for American Studies (TFAS) in 1993 to capitalize on the historic opportunity created by the collapse of communism. AIPES was created in order to introduce the foundations of democracy and free market economics to young leaders from nations that have emerged as newly independent nations.  Students gather to study the basic foundations of a free society, and are encouraged to apply these concepts to the transitions taking place in their home countries. The success of the Institute is evident by the growth of the program.  Beginning as a pilot program of 35 students in 1993, the Institute grew to 55 students from 11 countries by 1994; and by 2007, the Institute grew to over 140 participants from 30 countries representing over 75 universities.

Former AIPES Faculty Director Jim Lengle of Georgetown University comments,

"I can honestly state that in my 20 years in higher education, I have found no experience as rewarding as my time here, no students as smart, motivated, attentive, and charming as you, and no off-campus program with as much potential and value as this one."

The students have excellent English language ability, strong academic credentials, and proven leadership skills. Equally important, the students have strong commitment to free market, democratic reform in their countries. In the past two years the Institute received 1000 applications from over 30 countries. The increasing number of applications from throughout the region demonstrates the growing reputation of the Institute.

The Fund for American Studies, its Prague Programs, regional and local supporters have been honored by the US Ambassador every summer as a private reception is held in our honor. The Fund is entirely greatful to former Ambassadors: Ms. Jenonne Walker, John Shattuck, Craig R. Stapleton, William J. Cabaniss and current Ambassador Richard Graber for their hospitality since 1997.

Nations represented in the Institute have been Azerbaijan, Albania, Armenia, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Georgia, Germany, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Russia,Serbia,  Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, the United States and Uzbekistan.  

US Ambassador Residence in Prague, site of annual AIPES reception.