Program History and Mission

The Nancy R. Chandler Lecture Series is a longstanding institution at the College. The program is a perennial source of diverse, compelling and timely conversations since its founding in 1985.

Robert W. Chandler Sr. created the program to honor his wife, Nancy. With The Chandler’s role as editors and owners of Western Communications, they often hosted visitors from across the nation and around the world. Discussions with these visitors covered wide-ranging topics and perspectives. Nancy Chandler took great delight sharing the knowledge of their visitors with those around her in the community. Thus, the idea behind the Chandler Lecture Series is to continue Nancy Chandler's tradition – to bring nationally and internationally renowned thinkers to Central Oregon to stimulate conversations and encourage thought on a wide range of subjects.

Our mission is to provide educational and relevant programming to COCC, its students and the community.