A ca. 2001 Frederick Douglass Collaborative booklet provides background:
Mission and Vision: "In pursuit of Frederick Douglass' commitment to American democratic ideals and educational excellence, the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education's Frederick Douglass Institute will serve as a catalyst for participating universities to enhance their curricula and enrich their campus climate. In this endeavor, The Frederick Douglass Institute at West Chester University will function as a resource and a link among participating universities. This mission statement was adopted at West Chester University on Oct. 22-23, 1998."
