A definitional framework is presented for the issues addressed by the Conference on Strengthening the Humanities in Occupational Curricula. After noting the diversity of the nontraditional student populations at community colleges, the paper looks at the definitions of words related to the conference theme: "curriculum,""occupation,""career,""vocation,""humanities,""humanitarian," and "humanist." This examination includes a discussion of three ways of defining the humanities: (1) using the definition employed in the legislation that created the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH); (2) contrasting the humanities with the sciences; and (3) defining the humanities according to their function, that is, they help individuals make sense of life, to see themselves from different angles, to reflect on the meaning of their beliefs and values, to respond with reason and feeling to their environments, and to understand the larger culture. Finally, the paper explores the use of this functional definition of the humanities in effecting curricular changes; warns that the sensitivities and faculties used in studying the humanities must be constantly practiced; urges participants to contact the NEH; and quotes Woodrow Wilson and Ralph W. Emerson to encourage the participants in their efforts to strengthen the humanities curriculum. (JP)