A United Planet Scholarship
The David Santulli Scholarship for Relational Diplomacy
One Relationship Can Change the World
In honor of United Planet's founder David Santulli, the David Santulli Scholarship for Relational Diplomacy was established to support individuals who believe that lasting peace begins with meaningful human connection.
Awarded annually, this scholarship provides one exceptional individual the opportunity to participate in a United Planet Long-Term Quest—a 6 to 12-month immersive experience living and volunteering abroad. Through service, cultural exchange, and relationship-building, recipients gain the skills and perspective to become compassionate global leaders while making a lasting impact in the communities they serve.
This scholarship honors David Santulli's lifelong belief that understanding grows when we step beyond our borders and invest in relationships across cultures.
This scholarship will plant seeds in deserving people who will go out into the world, build bridges of understanding, and bring goodwill into places that need it. That is what relational diplomacy is all about, and I am honored that this scholarship will help carry that idea forward for many years to come.
Scholarship Details
Scholarship Award
The David Santulli Scholarship for Relational Diplomacy is awarded annually to one outstanding applicant.
- Award Frequency
- Annual
- Recipient
- One individual
- Program Length
- 6 to 12 months
- Funding
- Up to $10,000, based on available funding
- Coverage
- Most program-related costs
- Eligible Destinations
- All United Planet Long-Term Quest destinations
The Ideal Candidate
Who Should Apply?
For individuals ready to serve, connect, and lead across cultures.
We're looking for individuals who demonstrate:
- Exceptional character
- Leadership potential
- Curiosity about the world
- A commitment to service
- A desire to build bridges across cultures
This scholarship is designed for someone who:
- Believes in connection over conflict
- Values meaningful cultural exchange
- Wants to create lasting impact through relationships
- Is ready to immerse themselves in another culture while serving alongside local communities
2027 Scholarship
Application Process
Applications for the 2027 David Santulli Scholarship open in September 2026.
Fundraising for the scholarship begins in August 2026, with the campaign continuing through December 2026 while applications remain open.
Applicants will be asked to submit essays and supporting application materials. Finalists will be invited to interview before the final recipient is selected by United Planet's Board of Directors.
Apply NowFundraising Campaign
August–December 2026
Applications Open
September 2026
Application Deadline
December 2026
Interviews
January 2027
Final Selection by United Planet Board
February 2027
Program Preparation & Enrollment
February–March 2027
Partner Placement Process
April 2027
Program Acceptance
May–June 2027
Long-Term Quest Begins
August 2027
One Relationship at a Time
Continue David Santulli's Legacy
David Santulli founded United Planet on the belief that people have the power to transform the world through understanding, service, and authentic relationships.
Today, every donation to this scholarship helps make that vision possible for someone else.
When you support the David Santulli Scholarship, you're investing in a future leader who will cross borders, immerse themselves in another culture, and return home with the experience and perspective to make a difference.
Together, we can continue building a more united world—one relationship at a time.