COCC's Chandler Lecture Series Concludes 40th Season with Two Topical Talks

The spring schedule features discussions on social isolation and the impact of AI on human thinking.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 5:26pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in soft, warm tones depicting a group of people engaged in conversation, conveying the concept of human connection and belonging.The Chandler Lecture Series fosters meaningful dialogue and connection within the Central Oregon community.Bend Today

The Nancy R. Chandler Lecture Series, a program of the Central Oregon Community College Foundation, is finishing its 40th year of bringing inspiring scholars and speakers to the region with a spring schedule that features 'Building Belonging: The Science of Connecting in a Lonely World' on April 14 and 'Stay Human: Author Your Mind in the AI Age' on April 28.

Why it matters

The Chandler Lecture Series has a long history of providing thought-provoking programming to the Central Oregon community, covering a wide range of topics from social issues to emerging technologies. These two upcoming talks continue that tradition, addressing the timely challenges of social isolation and the influence of AI on human cognition.

The details

The 'Building Belonging' event will examine the 'loneliness epidemic' in the U.S., exploring the neuroscience and psychology behind social isolation and offering practical strategies for strengthening human connections. The 'Stay Human' talk will delve into how the use of AI is changing the way people think and impacting their sense of self, drawing on research gathered from thousands of individuals.

  • The 'Building Belonging' event will take place on Tuesday, April 14, at 6 p.m.
  • The 'Stay Human' talk will be held on Tuesday, April 28, at 6:30 p.m.

The players

Central Oregon Community College Foundation

The organization that runs the Nancy R. Chandler Lecture Series, bringing diverse, thought-provoking programming to the Central Oregon community for the past 40 years.

Scott Crabtree

The founder of the consulting firm Happy Brain Science, who will present the 'Building Belonging' event.

Helen and Dave Edwards

The cofounders of the Bend-based Artificiality Institute, who will present the 'Stay Human' talk.

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What they’re saying

“For 40 years, the Nancy R. Chandler Lecture Series has brought diverse, thought-provoking programming to Central Oregon, from poet-activist Maya Angelou to food justice champion Bryant Terry to journalist Lulu Garcia-Navarro.”

— Charlotte Gilbride, Coordinator of the Chandler Lecture Series

What’s next

Individuals needing accommodation or transportation due to a physical or mobility disability should contact campus services, and those needing accommodation for other disabilities like hearing impairment should contact student accessibility services.

The takeaway

The Chandler Lecture Series continues to be a valuable resource for the Central Oregon community, providing access to thought-provoking discussions on important social and technological issues that impact people's lives.