Welcome to ‘The Gates Unbarred: A History of University Extension at Harvard, 1910 – 2009.’ This comprehensive work chronicles the remarkable journey of Harvard’s University Extension program, which has served as a bridge between the university and the wider community for over a century.

Beginning with the Lyceum movement in Boston, the history of University Extension is intricately linked to the visionary leadership of Harvard’s President A. Lawrence Lowell, who initiated the program in 1910. This initiative was groundbreaking, as it opened the doors of Harvard to individuals from various backgrounds, allowing both men and women the opportunity to earn degrees.

Throughout its storied tenure, University Extension has significantly influenced American higher education and has been a pioneer in continuing education. In the late 1940s, the program took a bold step forward by introducing educational radio courses taught by esteemed Harvard professors. This innovation laid the groundwork for future advancements in distance learning.

In the 1950s, the introduction of collegiate television courses for credit marked another milestone, making education more accessible than ever before. Furthermore, with the rise of technology, Harvard College began offering online courses, ensuring that quality education could reach students anywhere, at any time.

The 1960s saw further expansion as University Extension developed a two-year curriculum tailored for the U.S. nuclear navy, known as ‘Polaris University.’ This program exemplified Harvard’s commitment to meeting diverse educational needs and adapting to the times.

In the early 1970s, the Extension program responded to local community demands by reaching out to neighborhoods in Cambridge and Roxbury, implementing special applied programs that were designed to support and uplift those communities.

This history, however, is not solely about the programs and initiatives; it is also about the extraordinary individuals who have contributed to the program’s legacy. The distinguished faculty members who taught evening courses in Harvard Yard played a crucial role in shaping the educational experience, sharing their knowledge and expertise with eager learners.

Moreover, the students who have walked through the gates of Harvard’s University Extension are a testament to its success. Among them are remarkable stories, such as the youngest student to earn an ALB degree at just eighteen years old, and the oldest recipients of the ALB and ALM degrees, both aged eighty-nine. These individuals have set records at Harvard University, showcasing the diversity and potential of its student population.

In summary, ‘The Gates Unbarred’ not only recounts the history of University Extension but also celebrates the transformative power of education. It highlights how Harvard has continually adapted to meet the educational needs of the community, ensuring that knowledge is accessible to all. This narrative serves as an inspiration, reminding us that education is not just a privilege for the few, but a fundamental right that can open doors for everyone.