Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education will present the Frederick Douglass Institute’s Research and Creative Arts Conference April 9 and 10 at Millersville University.

The hybrid conference, themed “The Power of Community: Uniting to Amplify Voices and Foster Well-Being,” is an opportunity for students to share their ideas, voice their opinions and collaborate with peers on the crucial issues of belonging and well-being. Participation will help foster a community of critical thinkers and problem-solvers who are ready to take on the challenges facing the world today. 

PennWest students are invited and encouraged to submit a proposal to present research and/or coursework related to justice, diversity, equity and inclusion. Students should submit proposals by March 1, using this link.

The second day of the conference will feature the 10thAnnual Douglass Debates, conducted in-person only. University students from all over PASSHE will come together to engage in a lively and thought-provoking debate on the resolution: "The PA State Legislature Should Implement School Choice In K-12 Education."

Teams can register for the debates at http://douglassdebates.tabroom.com. Coaches, competitors and judges will need to create an account with Tabroom.com, a free service provided by the National Speech and Debate Association. For information about participating in the debates, contact tournament director Dr. R.J. Green at rgreen2@commonwealthu.edu.

Students who have questions or need support in the submission process may contact Dr. Joseph Croskey, Frederick Douglass Institute director, at jcroskey@pennwest.edu