Howard University is a comprehensive, research-oriented university in Washington, D.C. The historically black university is dedicated to providing educational experiences of high quality to students of high academic potential. Howard University traces its origin to 1867, when it was founded by General Oliver O. Howard. It has played a significant role in civil rights history on a number of occasions. The idea to establish the institution came out in 1866, shortly after the Civil War. It was started as an institution for the education of youth in liberal arts and sciences. Accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, the university is organized into the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, the John H. Johnson School of Communications, the College of Dentistry, the School of Divinity, the School of Education, the College of Engineering, Architecture and Computer Sciences, the Graduate School, the School of Law, the College of Medicine, the College of Pharmacy, Nursing and Allied Health Sciences; and the School of Social Work. The Howard University Middle School of Mathematics and Science is committed to academic excellence, with a specific focus on mathematics and science. Through the schools and colleges, it offers degree programs and masters degree programs. The Honors Program, Continuing Education, and Counseling Services are provided in addition to International Student Services. Howard University Hospital is a 482-bed award-winning university and teaching hospital with a wide range of medical services. The Digital Learning Lab, Center for Excellence in Teaching, Learning and Assessment, African American Women's Institute, and the Student Health Center are among some of the facilities. A wide range of residence hall options also are provided. Within the campus compound is the Armour J. Blackburn University Center, which provides an environment for social, cultural, recreational, leisure, and intellectual enrichment outside the classroom. To develop and enhance social and leadership skills, the campus promotes various clubs and organizations such as Sports Clubs, Social and Cultural Clubs, and Religious Organizations. Intramural activities supported on campus include Flag Football, Women’s Flag Football, Soccer, Basketball, and Baseball. The library system at Howard University is recognized among the nation's larger academic and research libraries. The campus provides various library departments with special collections in support of academic programs. The Moorland-Spingarn Research Center is considered one of the world's largest and most comprehensive repositories for the documentation of the history and culture of people of African descent in Africa, the Americas, and other parts of the world.