This study explores the changing mission statements of the University of Toledo and how those changes impacted the social contract between the University and city of Toledo. Specially, the study engages in historical and documental analysis and investigates three major moments in the history of the University of Toledo when Toledoans engaged significantly with the formation of the academic mission. The three events include: the transition from a manual training school to a full-fledged municipal university, the conversion from a municipal to state institution, and the merger with the Medical University of Ohio. This study is grounded in the theory of social contracts which issued as a framework for examining the reciprocal relationship of the public good found between higher education and society. This study shows the mission of the University and its direction influenced the social contract, which changed over time. Toledoans reacted to changes the Board of Trustees and University President communicated to the public. However, Toledoans used their voices and their vote to attempt to influence the direction of the institution, academic program offerings, university expansion, and how the university handled issues regarding diversity and inclusion. Toledoans and the University also both worked to promote the social contract. The University promoted the economic, industrial, social, and cultural connection points often touting the best the city of Toledo had to offer in the University bulletin or catalog. Toledoans also supported the university regarding academic, student, and community programming. Finally, the evidence suggests social contracts have to be actively maintained by the university because the university is the dominate partner, but when the University of Toledo engages Toledoans reciprocate. [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://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]