The Franks Family
Taking Local Action for a Sustainable Future
Shaun and Princess Franks are dedicated to protecting the climate through community action and sustainable living choices that foster a resilient future for the Rogue Valley.
Cultivating Change Through Education
Shaun and Princess moved to Ashland from Anaheim, California in 2009. In 2011, while traveling in Germany for a study abroad program, Shaun was introduced to the concept of renewable energy — solar, wind, hydro, biogas, and electric vehicles.
When he returned to the Southern Oregon University campus, he started working on a solution that would allow students to fund solar projects into the future. Today, the SOU Green Fund invests student dollars in local water, energy, and campus sustainability projects. The fund has established multiple solar installations on campus, launched The Farm at SOU, and continues to support student projects.
“We started the farm with just five acres, rehabilitating one acre at a time. Each year the students come up with great new ideas to create change on the farm. It just keeps growing.”
– SHAUN FRANKS
Envisioning a Solar Ashland
After graduating in 2014, Shaun worked at Peace House before finding his place at True South Solar in 2016. In his role as Sales and Marketing Coordinator, Shaun helps launch solar projects, secure incentives and grants, and advocate for climate change legislation.
He also serves on the SOU Board of Trustees, collaborating on the university’s goal of achieving net-zero energy consumption within the next five years.
“The university spends about $1 million annually on energy bills. Imagine redirecting those funds toward scholarships and faculty positions instead. Renewable energy creates so many opportunities beyond environmental benefits.”
– SHAUN FRANKS
Working for Climate Justice
Princess began volunteering with Rogue Climate in 2011. Her initial involvement with art projects and fundraising campaigns evolved into a staff position in 2018 as an Administrative Coordinator, where she focuses on event planning and community building. Rogue Climate’s mission is to empower local communities most impacted by climate change — including rural, seniors, and youth — to advocate for climate justice.
Her commitment to community extends beyond climate action. She served as PTO president at Bellview Elementary for several years, where the couple’s two sons went to school, hosting and organizing carnival events and bingo nights that brought families together.
Bringing It Home
As homeowners, Princess and Shaun have methodically enhanced their home’s efficiency — adding insulation, installing solar panels, and replacing their HVAC system with ductless heat pumps. Their commitment extends to transportation, progressing from hybrids to fully-electric vehicles, and even food choices by prioritizing organic and local options whenever possible.
“You don’t have to transform everything overnight. Small improvements to windows, insulation, and door seals add up significantly over time. We’ve been transitioning off natural gas, and the last piece will be our stove when it’s time.”
– PRINCESS FRANKS
A Renewable Rogue Valley
The Franks’ vision for the future includes a 100% renewable energy Rogue Valley. While it may sound ambitious, Shaun believes in verbalizing big, audacious goals to help them take shape. With Southern Oregon University on the incredible journey of investing in renewable energy — growing from just 24 panels to thousands over the last several years — Shaun believes they can set an example for the rest of the community to follow suit.
“The state and local policies for making this possible already exist,” explains Shaun. “The City of Ashland has programs in place for off-site solar and virtual net metering for homes without good solar access. It’s going to take educating our community on the possibilities and incentives.”
Taking Small Steps
For Ashland residents wondering how to begin their own sustainability journey, the Franks offer practical advice — start with an energy audit. Noting that The Game of LIFE® now has an “eco-home” version, the Franks share that their own journey toward an eco-conscious home has progressed in small steps over time. It’s those small steps that add up.
“There’s no community without individual action,” says Princess. “Some people donate, others make phone calls, and some march in demonstrations. It’s all of these collective actions that drive meaningful change.”
Sustainability Isn’t a Sacrifice
When reflecting on what they cherish most about their community, the list flows easily: views from Mount Ashland, Earth Day celebrations at Garfield Park, silent disco nights in Lithia Park, and the natural beauty of local landmarks like Pompadour Bluff.
Through their personal choices and professional commitments, the Franks family demonstrates that sustainable living isn’t a sacrifice—it’s a vibrant and connected lifestyle that helps protect what they love most.
Story Credits
Photography
Professional photos by Cari Baker.
Personal photos shared courtesy of The Franks Family.