Studying history offers us important lessons: it helps to point out concepts which repeat and suggests errors so that we can adjust our path. This study attempted to uncover changes in higher educational mission statements over time in the western New York area. By exploring changes in institutional mission statements, the researcher hopes to add to institutional knowledge at individual institutions and contribute to the larger picture of the history of higher education mission. The current research finds that mission statements in the western New York area have become less distinctive over time, yet they have become more responsive to serving the community, particularly at 2-year public institutions. In addition, marketing language is very evident within current mission statements, emphasizing their malleability from external pressures to adapt to the times. In fact, many institutions have tried different missions, yet do not always maintain them over time. Finally, the themes of social development, service to community, and commercialism grew more prominent overt time, while the themes of mental discipline, piety, and self-development weakened over time. The theme of higher education for practical purposes remained steady over time and across all Carnegie classifications. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]