Exploring China’s World Heritage Sites: Academia Hernando Hosts Kun Shi

Hernando County’s lifelong learning series, Academia Hernando, will feature an engaging presentation by Kun Shi on Friday, Feb. 21, at 10 a.m. as part of its Spring Lecture Series. The lecture, titled “World Heritage Sites in China,” will take place at the Wellcome Om Center, located at 4260 Lake in the Woods Drive, Spring Hill, FL 34607.

China boasts an impressive 59 World Heritage Sites listed by UNESCO, placing it second globally, just behind Italy, which has 60. These sites include a vast array of historical and natural wonders, from the iconic Forbidden City (Palace Museum) in Beijing to the breathtaking Stone Forest in Kunming. During the lecture, Kun Shi will guide attendees on a virtual tour of many of these remarkable sites. He will also share insights from his recent visits to Xiamen, Quanzhou, Hangzhou and Beijing. Additionally, Kun will highlight the unique cultural and natural features of Yunnan, the multi-ethnic province where he was born.

Kun Shi brings a wealth of expertise and cultural knowledge to his presentations. Recently retired from the University of South Florida (USF), he continues to teach for OLLI-USF. Kun holds a graduate degree in cultural anthropology and has served as a program director for the USF World and Ohio State University’s Chinese Flagship Program. He is also involved with the Sister Cities Association of Sarasota, further demonstrating his commitment to fostering cultural understanding.

Academia Hernando invites adult learners to join a vibrant community of curiosity and discovery through its diverse and engaging lecture series. The Spring Lecture Series offers something for everyone, whether you’re passionate about history, art or entertainment.

Tickets for individual lectures are available for $15, subject to space availability. For more information about Academia Hernando, visit www.academiahernando.org. If you have any questions, contact Academia Hernando at 352-515-0300 or 352-515-1822.