Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future
250th Anniversary
signing of the Declaration of Independence
On July 4, 2026, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation's past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.
Upcoming
Events
Frederick Douglass Day (A Dare to Declare event)
Thursday, February 12, 2026 (1:00 pm - 3:30 pm) | FHG Library, Room 615
To mark Black History month and Lincoln’s birthday, WCU will host the inaugural Frederick Douglass Day. A reading of the Declaration of Independence will be part of an event celebrating Frederick Douglass’ legacy and his connection to WCU. The keynote speaker is Dr. tonya thames-taylor, Associate Professor and founder of the African American History Department. Dr. taylor is a member of the Chester County 250 Planning Commission and will oversee the Dare to Declare portion of the event.
Still Ringing for Justice: Education, Equity & Women's Voices (A Dare to Declare event)
Thursday, March 19, 2026 (12:00 pm - 3:00 pm) | Philips Autograph Library
In recognition of Women’s History Month, West Chester University of Pennsylvania’s Women’s Commission presents a screening of the Justice Bell documentary to explore the enduring role of women’s voices in advancing justice, equity, and democratic leadership. Through education, dialogue, and civic engagement, this event invites the campus community to reflect on history, amplify women’s leadership, and consider our shared responsibility in shaping a more just future. The Justice Bell toured Chester County in 1915 to support the women’s suffrage movement. The final stop on the tour was the Chester County Courthouse. There will be a 20-minute documentary followed by discussion led by the woman behind the Justice Bell Project, Amanda Owner.
Frederick Douglass Institute/PASSHE Collaborative Conference
March 31, 2026 - April 1, 2026
March 31, 2026 - April 1, 2026 | Sykes Ballroom, Sykes Student Union
The FDI Conference serves as both a scholarly platform and a professional development
space, bringing together faculty, administrators, students, staff, and community partners
who are committed to transformational change. The conference is guided by the mission
of the FDI, which focuses on promoting multiculturalism, supporting historically underrepresented
scholars, and expanding opportunities for teaching, research, and service aligned
with Douglass’s principles of education, liberation, and civic engagement.