A Lifelong Learner’s Journey from MICA to Carroll
At 83 years old, Nan Nelson is a testament to the enduring spirit of curiosity and creativity. A passionate artist, history enthusiast, and lifelong learner, Nan’s journey has taken her from studying at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) in the 1960s to taking history classes at Carroll Community College, where she continues to challenge herself and inspire others.
A Life Interwoven with Art
Nan’s connection to art runs deep in her family. Her mother attended MICA, and the legacy is likely to continue with her niece considering the same path. Even her grandfather, an electrician, was an avid painter. Despite briefly teaching art, Nan discovered her true passion lay in creating rather than critiquing. “I hated to grade kids and tell them what they didn’t do right,” she recalls. “I wanted them to just keep doing stuff and not get discouraged.”
Art has always been a consistent thread in Nan’s life. A longtime member of the Carroll County Artists Guild, she has painted everything from charming neighborhood homes to undulating belly dancers. Her prize-winning work has been exhibited at numerous local venues, most recently at Carroll Community College for its Guild Show.
For Nan, a self-professed humanist, painting is more than just a creative outlet—it’s a way to connect with people. One particularly touching moment came when a DoorDash delivery driver saw her painting depicting three men, one of whom was Sikh, and exclaimed, “Punjabi like me!” It’s human connections like these that keep this lifelong learner inspired.
Returning to Learn at Carroll
Nan’s relationship with Carroll Community College began when it was still affiliated with Catonsville Community College. She initially enrolled in their Customer Service class. Over the years since then, she has taken a range of courses there, from art to history, including a memorable civil rights class taught by Carroll professor Dr. Bob Young.
“History is real life,” Nan says. “We’re attached to history in so many ways, and that’s the way you remember things about what else was happening at the same time.”
Nan’s age has proven to be an asset in her classes. As a lifelong learner, she enjoys sharing her lived experiences, such as recalling where she was during major historical events like the assassination of President Kennedy or the Watts Riots. Professors like Bob Young value these contributions, noting that younger students often learn just as much from Nan as they do from the curriculum.
Pursuing Wisdom and Connection
For Nan, Carroll Community College offers more than just education—it provides connection and purpose. “Coming to Carroll is like an exercise program. You’re exercising your brain when you’re learning, and your body when you walk in from the parking lot,” she quips. “And you get to go out and socialize with different people.” She encourages other seniors to take advantage of all the opportunities Carroll offers, particularly the reduced tuition for older adults.
Her lifelong learner journey is as much about exploring the past as it is about embracing the present. Through classes on topics like the Cold War and civil rights, Nan has discovered less-known stories and gained new perspectives. “Why didn’t I know about the Tulsa race massacre?” she asks, reflecting on the gaps in historical education. Carroll has given her the tools to examine history critically and connect with others willing to do the same.
Nan Nelson embodies the mission of Carroll Community College: to support personal and intellectual growth at every stage of life. Her love for art, history, and human connection continues to enrich the College community. Whether she’s painting, taking classes, or sharing stories, Nan’s zest as a lifelong learner serves to remind us that it’s never too late to learn, create, and inspire.