Donate to the Constitutional Federalism Initiative

The Constitutional Federalism Initiative (CFI), housed in Utah Valley University’s Center for Constitutional Studies (CCS) and in coordination with the Gary R. Herbert Institute for Public Policy, is a nonpartisan, interdisciplinary initiative dedicated to advancing public officials’ understanding of the U.S. Constitution’s federal system and fostering interstate collaboration towards a robust, balanced, constitutional federal system.

CFI was created to fulfill the mandates given to the Center for Constitutional Studies by Utah House Bill 488 (2025).

Give to CFI

Why Constitutional Federalism Matters

Preserve and strengthen a balanced constitutional system that:

  • Protects liberty by revitalizing fundamental checks and balances.
  • Fosters representative democracy by bringing local issues closer to the people.
  • Facilitates local innovation and competition.
  • Promotes problem-solving synergy between states and with the national government.
  • Equip public officials with practical knowledge to navigate state-federal issues.
  • Position Utah as a national leader in federalism education and dialogue.

In the Compound Republic of America, the power surrendered by the people, is first divided between two distinct governments, and then the portion allotted to each, subdivided among distinct and separate departments. Hence a double security arises to the rights of the people. The different governments will control each other; at the same time that each will be controlled by itself."

—James Madison, Federalist Papers #51

The Initiative's Role

  • Education & Training — Develops continuing education for state and local officials.
  • Annual Federalism Conference — Brings together policymakers, scholars, and citizens.
  • Research & Resources — Produces accessible scholarship and tools for civic education.
  • Collaboration — Works with the National Federalism Initiative to build interstate coordination while maintaining UVU’s academic independence.

Your Support Fuels:

  • Training programs for elected officials.
  • The annual Federalism Conference.
  • Scholarship, research, and public resources.
  • Better governance that serves the people and the public interest.

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