Bard Early College opened its doors in September 2001, welcoming the inaugural year of Bard High School Early College Manhattan.

Since then, Bard Early College has expanded from its first campus in New York City to comprise a consortium of degree-granting campuses across five states and Washington, D.C. Across the network, more than 6,000 Associate in Arts degrees have been awarded since 2003. Over 25 years, our network has grown from a small community to a national movement of 10 campuses, dozens of dual enrollment partners, and hundreds of faculty and educators serving nearly 4,000 students every year.

This year, we are celebrating a quarter century of Bard Early College with students, families, faculty, partners, and community members.

The anniversary celebration will include many events and initiatives throughout the academic year, including:

• 25 Years of Bard Early College In New York City: Evaluating Bard’s Impact, an impact evaluation highlighting the legacy and impact of Bard Early College in New York City;
• A series of Dean’s Hour events throughout the year, bringing students, faculty, staff, and special guests together to reflect on the accomplishments of the community;
• An internal faculty convention in winter 2027, bringing educators from across our network together to celebrate the academic traditions of Bard Early College and envision the future of early college pedagogy;
• BHSEC at 25: A Quarter-Century of Early College Education, a conference on dual enrollment in New York City convening educators, policymakers, researchers, and other leaders to explore how dual enrollment can continue to expand access to college and enhance equity in a changing educational landscape.

The anniversary year will celebrate not only the history of Bard Early College, but also the students, families, educators, public school partners, and communities who make the network possible today. Additionally, Bard will continue to look forward, asking how early college and dual enrollment can continue to expand educational opportunity, strengthen public education, and ensure that more students have access to rigorous and meaningful learning experiences.

Information on upcoming events, gatherings, and celebrations will be uploaded on this webpage. Please check back regularly for more information!