OASIS
Embrace lifelong learning at OASIS, Howard Community College’s premier older adult summit!
Join us for an enriching, 4-day seminar series. Each day offers an engaging seminar led by HCC faculty and industry experts. Each day explores a unique theme designed to inform, inspire, and empower lifelong learners.
June 1–4, 2026
9 a.m.–3 p.m.
$49 per day* (onsite, same-day registration available)
*Out-of-county Maryland residents, add $10 per course. Residents outside of Maryland, add $20 per course. For onsite, same-day registration, bring a completed OASIS 2026 Registration Form (or one will be provided for you). The OASIS team will gladly assist with registration and payment processing.
Monday, June 1, Course XI-751
“Oceans of Power: The Past, Present, and Future of Energy Development”: presented by Angel McCoy
Explore how oceans have shaped energy development across time in this engaging one-day course. Beginning with a look at the history of ocean-based energy, the session will examine today’s shift toward renewable technologies such as offshore wind and wave power. Participants will also learn about the growing importance of critical minerals and rare earth elements found in the ocean, which are essential to modern technology and clean energy systems. Along the way, the course will consider the roles of government, industry and individuals in shaping energy decisions. Designed to connect global issues to everyday life, this course makes complex topics accessible, relevant and thought-provoking.
Tuesday, June 2, Course XI-752
“The Age of AI: What Everyone Needs to Know Now”: presented by Paul Hylenski
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how people live, work and communicate. In this engaging and practical session, participants will learn what AI is, how it is already influencing everyday life and why understanding it is becoming essential across all fields. Designed for lifelong learners, the course will explore how AI tools can assist with tasks such as writing, research, travel planning and organization. It will also examine how AI can generate realistic images, voices and messages, along with strategies for identifying misinformation and manipulation. Through clear examples and demonstrations, participants will gain practical tips for using AI responsibly and confidently in a fast-changing world.
Wednesday, June 3, Course XI-753
“Religious Pluralism in Ancient thru Modern China”: presented by Linda Yuriko Kato
This course explores the long history of religious diversity in China, where major world religions — including Buddhism, Islam, Judaism and Christianity — have been present since the Han Dynasty (206 B.C.–A.D. 220). Participants will examine how these traditions developed uniquely Chinese beliefs and practices over time and how they influenced Chinese civilization. The session will also address the current status of religious communities in mainland China under the Chinese Communist Party. By connecting historical developments to contemporary realities, this course offers a deeper understanding of religion’s role in shaping Chinese society across centuries.
Thursday, June 4, Course XI-754
“Arts and the Man-from Let Us Sleep Now to Hell No, We Won’t Go!": presented by Bill Scanlan Murphy
Examine how artists have responded to war across the 20th century in this thought-provoking course. Beginning with World War I, the session will explore how poets, painters and composers captured both the horror of conflict and the complexities of heroism. It will then consider the differing artistic responses to World War II, including the contrasting legacies of Allied, German and Soviet creators. Finally, the course will turn to the Vietnam era, when protest music and visual art reshaped how war was represented. Participants will consider how art reflects societal change and why its response to conflict has evolved over time.
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Have questions about OASIS? Please contact us by email at PersonalEnrichment@HowardCC.edu or call 443-518-4659 during business hours.
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