Established in 1967 as the Office of Continuing Studies the Susanne M. Glasscock School of Continuing Studies has a rich history. It began modestly offering courses like “The Physics Basis of Hydrocarbon Processing at Low Temperatures”. This wasn’t exactly captivating but it met a crucial need. Engineering alumni sought to update their skills. The school’s first director was Carl Wischmeyer.
Later Mary McIntire became the first female dean at Rice University a significant milestone. The Speros P. Martel Center opened providing dedicated classrooms. President George Erik Rupp elevated Continuing Studies to a school. A major gift from Mr and Mrs Melbern G Glasscock and the Glasscock Foundation transformed the school. It became the Susanne M. Glasscock School of Continuing Studies. This was the largest endowment ever given to a university continuing education program in the US.
The school expanded. It created a teacher professional development department. It offered a Master of Liberal Studies. The Center for Philanthropy & Nonprofit Leadership was established. Programs like the Master of Arts in Teaching and School Literacy & Culture joined. The D. Kent and Linda C. Anderson and Robert L. and Jean T. Clarke Center became its new home.
In 2017 the Glasscock School celebrated its 50th anniversary. Dr Robert Bruce Jr. was named dean. Rice’s Center for Education integrated providing preK-12 outreach. The Glasscock School’s mission remains vital. It connects Rice University with the Houston community. It offers a diverse range of courses for professional development personal enrichment and community engagement. Its impact extends far beyond its walls. The school continues to evolve growing and adapting to the ever-changing needs of its students and community. The legacy of the Susanne M. Glasscock School of Continuing Studies is one of innovation adaptation and service. It is a place where lifelong learning flourishes.