June 2023

Vol. 12

2023 Alumni Hall of Fame Inductees Announced
Celebration Set for June 22, 2023

The Bakersfield College Foundation, in partnership with the Bakersfield College Alumni Association, invites the community to the 2023 BC Alumni Hall of Fame.

This event will be held Thursday, June 22^nd in our very own Renegade Event Center. Tickets and sponsorships are available at this link: Tickets & Sponsorships

We are proud to announce our 2023 inductees:

Steven Val Alvidrez

Steven was instrumental in the development of a police department at the Kern High School District, and he served as Chief of Police for the Kern High School District from January 2000 until his sudden death in 2011.  Prior to that role, he was a deputy sheriff at the Kern County Sheriff’s Department where he played a critical role in lowering tension between local youth and deputy sheriffs.  He was a tremendous influence as he coached in a multitude of sports programs where he taught sportsmanship and teamwork not only to the young athletes, but to their families as well.  Steven also developed and presented the “Scared Straight” program to help correct the path of troubled young people in Kern County. Steven was always going above and beyond for his community.

Ryan Alsop

As Kern County’s Chief Administrative Officer, Ryan’s job is critical to the success of the nearly 8,000-person organization and nearly 1 million residents who call Kern County home. Ryan has navigated some of the most challenging and complex issues ever to face our county, from guiding the organization through an annual fiscal deficit of $62 million dollars to leading the entire community through the COVID-19 pandemic.  Currently, he is changing the way our county deals with one of its most prevalent issues – homelessness – by successfully implementing Kern County’s Strategic Mitigation Plan. Ryan has worked in a variety of positions across the nation, but Ryan is a Bakersfield resident born and raised, and his dream was always to return to Kern County to pour his experience back into our community. 

Max Becherer

Some moments in life can unexpectedly have the potential to change our lives. Max was told in a BC classroom that he had an eye for photography, and he is now the national photo editor at The Washington Post! Max describes his career path as a “cascading effect” that started at BC when he won a national photo competition for The Renegade Rip, which led to him continuing his path in journalism. For the past 25 years as a photojournalist, Max has covered the most important stories of our times (including Iraq, Afghanistan, and the civil rights movement in the deep south). His pictures have appeared in virtually every major magazine and newspaper in the United States and the world, and they are instantly recognizable. Max’s work reveals to the world not just the enormity of the events he covers, but the humanity and emotion of the toll of these world-changing events on the people impacted. Over the years he has conducted numerous lectures and presentations, and has mentored photojournalists around the world and at Bakersfield College.

Robin McNabb

It all goes back to BC, where seeds are planted for growth. Robin got her start at Bakersfield College when she was a single mom of four girls. Her children remember that each day she would feed, bathe and clothe them, and help with all of their homework and school projects before she would try to get some rest. Her alarm would be set for 3 a.m. so she could get up to study before she had to be ready to do it all again! Her dedication and determination got her to where she now is today. As Vice President and Chief Nurse Executive Officer for Bakersfield Memorial Hospital, Robin is responsible for the day-to-day nursing operations of the hospital, with a staff of more than 900 nurses and 1,400-plus total staff members under her leadership. Robin also has experience as a critical care nurse and served as a transplant coordinator during a brief hiatus from working in a hospital environment. She continues to work to raise awareness of the importance of organ donation and volunteers with various health-related non-profits. Robin’s pride comes from the easy access & quality of education that can be attained at Bakersfield College. She encourages others to apply at BC and helps break barriers and promotes growth for her employees.

Jay Tamsi

“BC molded me into the person I am today…where I wanted to be.” Jay, a first-generation college student, began his journey on the BC Delano campus where he completed all the courses they had to offer, and then had no choice but to commute to the Panorama campus to complete his degree! With a humble beginning and true determination, Jay is now the President/CEO of the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (KCHCC) and the KCHCC Business Education Foundation (which he founded in 2002). Jay is an exceptional leader whose influence has had a tremendous impact on the local economy. In addition to tripling the membership of the KCHCC in less than 10 years at the helm, Jay has developed and implemented programs that have helped prepare more than 1200 entrepreneurs and new business owners. As the central region chairman of the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, he has played a pivotal role throughout the state of California advocating for Kern’s small businesses, Hispanic and diverse communities, policy issues, and political dynamics impacting our economic growth. The recent expansion of KCHCC programs focuses on rural communities, providing new opportunities for entrepreneurs in outlying areas. Jay has partnered with Bakersfield College on initiatives and expanded an excellent partnership that benefits students and higher education.

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From the Executive Director

Spring is almost over, but things always continue to bloom here at Bakersfield College! This time of year is one of our favorites at the BC Foundation. We just celebrated the 109^th commencement, where we had a record number of graduates! The end of the spring semester is always special, as it symbolizes not only the completion of a successful school year but also the start of new and exciting plans for the Fall!

There are so many changes underway at BC, the most current being the appointment of our new Interim President, Steven Watkin.

Steve, a servant leader dedicated to education and community, has made a profound impact throughout his career. With over 33 years of experience in Enrollment and Student Affairs, Steve’s journey began at Fresno Pacific University and continued at Fresno State before joining California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) as the Director of Outreach in 2000.

Steve’s passion for empowering students and his belief in the transformative power of education have been central to his work. He has tirelessly created opportunities for aspiring students, fostering an environment where individuals can thrive regardless of their chosen majors or social status.

As the Associate Vice Chancellor of Enrollment Services at the Kern Community College District, Steve played a crucial role in ensuring access to quality education for students from all backgrounds. His commitment to the college’s mission and vision was evident in his unwavering support for students on their educational journeys.

Beyond his career, Steve is a dedicated pastor, providing spiritual guidance and support to his congregation in Arvin, California. He has also volunteered at the Mission of Kern County, uplifting the community, and assisting those in need.

Steve and his wife, Kimberly, have volunteered at the Taft Federal Prison, offering hope and encouragement to incarcerated individuals. Their service reflects their belief in redemption and second chances.

Despite his achievements, Steve remains humble and driven by a desire to give back. Whether through his work in college administration, his role as a pastor, or spending time with his family, Steve embodies the essence of a servant leader. He selflessly dedicates himself to improving the lives of others and making a positive difference in his community.

Steve’s commitment to education, his role as a spiritual guide, and his dedication to community service make him a remarkable individual. Through his leadership and compassionate heart, he continues to inspire others to reach their full potential and leave a lasting impact on the world.

Congratulations on your new position, Steve! The BC Foundation team is excited to be working with you for the good of our students!

Wishing you a beautiful and safe summer,

Cheryl

Spotlight on BC Project HireUp

BC Project HireUp launched in collaboration with CityServe and Mission of Kern County in Spring 2020 with a cohort of 27 people, and is now on its 10^th cohort as of Summer 2023. The goal of Project HireUp is to decrease homelessness in Kern County through a creative and innovative partnership that supports students who are currently experiencing housing insecurity in continuing their education and securing employment.

The program was intentionally created with 3 major components woven into the design: personal, education and career development. The goal is to create pathways to self-sufficiency. By utilizing this design as its framework, some of our community’s most vulnerable have the opportunity to go from homeless to a job within 6 months. When we lift up those facing homelessness and empower them to own their journey, we see incredible outcomes. Individual lives are changed, families are reunited, and communities are made stronger.

“After experiencing homelessness, I decided to change my life and go back to school. The CityServe Educational Collaborative courses along with BC Project HireUP have given me confidence in myself and interview and office skills that I can take into the workforce. I am thankful and excited to continue pursuing my dreams of finishing my nursing degree with the help of CityServe and BC.” – Sierra Demmin, Graduate of CityServe Educational Collaborative and BC Project HireUp, Spring 2023.

Scholarship Celebration

Congratulations to the 630 (and counting) Bakersfield College students who have been awarded over $520,000 in scholarships for the school year 2023-2024!  To celebrate and honor the students’ hard work and accomplishments, the BC Foundation, in collaboration with Financial Aid, held its annual Scholarship Celebration. Scholarship recipients were invited to receive a medal that they can wear with their graduation regalia, enjoyed a light lunch and photo opportunities, and had a chance to write thank you letters to their scholarship donors!

Thank you to all our review committees who dedicated countless hours to reviewing over 2,000 applications. And of course, none of this would have been possible without the support and dedication of our many donors. Thank you! We look forward to your continued support and celebrating our students with you all next year. 

Ribbon Cutting Held for New BC Welcome Center

Bakersfield College recently held a ribbon cutting for the newly remodeled and Measure J-funded Welcome Center. This building provides a one-stop shop for students, housing the offices of Admissions & Records, Financial Aid, Business Services, and Outreach. Providing easy access to these resources will support student success at BC!

2023 Sterling Silver

Congratulations to this year’s Sterling Silver honorees:  Valley Strong Credit Union (Corporate Philanthropist of the Year); Marjorie and Bud Lindsey (Posthumous) (Individual Philanthropist of the Year); Fran Florez (BC Foundation Service Medal); and Jean Fuller (BC Leadership Award).

The evening featured a masquerade theme, entertainment by BC Jazz, and a delicious meal prepared by BC’s chefs and culinary students, paired with curated wines to bring out the best flavor possible. Thank you to the families, friends, and our community partners for coming out to support our honorees and the BC scholarship program!

BC Foundation Welcomes New Board Members

Deanna Blaise

Deanna Blaise is the Senior Vice President of Business Banking at Valley Strong Credit Union. She joined the Credit Union in 2019 and is responsible for the strategy and launching of the Business Banking Division that opened in August of 2019. She has over thirty years of experience in a banking environment, using her skills in cash management, small business lending, consumer lending, business development, coaching, team management, HR, and leadership.

Deanna and her husband Kenny love anything that involves exploring the outdoors. They have two grown children, Kortny (24) and Hayden (19). Deanna is actively involved in her community, currently serving as the Vice Chairwoman of the Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference, Executive Board Member of Mid State Development CDC, and the Taft College Foundation.

Octavio Escobedo III

Octavio is the Chairman of the Tejon Indian Tribe. His involvement in Tribal Government began in 2013 and is now in his third term, aiding him in developing a deep understanding of the challenges that Indian Country faces daily. During his tenure, he has helped develop a Tribal TANF initiative that is allowing the community to reconnect with their culture and heritage through prevention services and many other social service initiatives to help the tribes members. Currently, he is helping oversee several economic developments that will help overcome the history of atrocities that have occurred against the Tejon People.

His professional background is in electrical maintenance, construction, and project management. He has served in the fields of mining, oil & gas, and agriculture, and has displayed vast technical expertise in these areas. He also sits on several executive boards in the tribal realm and the local Kern County community. He is a father to 3 children and a loving husband to his wife of 20 years.

Derek Jeffery

Derek Jeffery is the Vice President & General Manager for KGET-TV, Telemundo, and CW Bakersfield stations. As a 4th generation and native of Bakersfield, he attended local schooling before receiving an athletic scholarship to play football at Utah State University. That is where he received his degree in Broadcast Journalism.  He started his professional career at KGET-TV in 2004 as a non-paid weekend sports intern and quickly ascended through the ranks, being promoted to Vice President/General Manager after only 9 years with the company.

Derek currently serves on the boards for the California Broadcaster’s Association, Kern County Broadcaster’s Association, American Heart Association Executive Leadership Team, Police Activities League, Bob Elias Hall of Fame, Blue Zone Executive Leadership Team, a Bakersfield West Rotarian and is a past Chairman of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce.

He is married to his 1998 prom date, Kristy, another native of Bakersfield, and they have two children together, Emerson and Parker. 

Thomas D. Ming

Tom is the Managing Director of the Central California office for Pensionmark Financial Group. Pensionmark partners with corporate, government, and non-profit retirement plans to streamline the complexities, reduce plan fees, and bring an operational process that prepares participants for retirement. As the Managing Director of Pensionmark, Tom’s focus is the small to mid-size plan market, allowing their relationship to be tailored to fit the needs of the organizations they serve.

Tom enjoys fly fishing, snowboarding, the mountains, and the beach. Tom and his wife Amy have three children, Luke, Molly, and Robert. The Ming family enjoys giving back to the local community by donating their time and resources to local nonprofits and educational institutions.

BC Alumni Association Welcomes New Board Members

BC Commencement 2023

Once again, BC sets a new record for number of graduates! Over 3,700 students received over 5,800 degrees for the 2022-2023 school year. Graduates and their families and friends filled Memorial Stadium for the 109^th commencement ceremony. It was a spectacular night, as students celebrated their hard work by walking across the stage and receiving their diplomas. Congratulations, Class of 2023!  

Panorama Feature: Your BC Story

Abby Auffant

When I was getting ready to graduate from Bakersfield High School, I knew that I had many options available to me. I also knew I was not quite ready to be away from home and that I intended to go to law school after receiving my undergraduate degree – a cost that would not be insignificant. It was important to me to keep the cost of my undergraduate education low as a result.

At that time, my father, Jacques Thiroux, had recently retired from Bakersfield College after nearly 30 years (first teaching English and then Philosophy after receiving his second Master’s degree). I knew I could get a quality education at BC while still living at home and continuing to get some work experience at my first real job.

I graduated from BC with my Associates Degree in Political Science, with honors. I was named the Outstanding Student in the Social Science Department upon graduation. I also had my general education certified as complete. This meant I would not have to take any additional general education courses in order to obtain my Bachelor’s degree.

After graduation, I transferred to California State University, Bakersfield. I obtained my Bachelor of Arts degree from CSUB in Political Science, magna cum laude, with a pre-law concentration and a minor in criminal justice.

Once I had my BA, my education was on hold for a short time while my husband (who got a later start on his education due to his service in the United States Army) finished his undergraduate studies. I was able during this time to work as a paralegal and get a sense of what it was really like to work at a law firm. We moved to Sacramento after I was accepted to the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law.

I graduated from McGeorge in the top two percent of my class, and I was awarded my Juris Doctor degree “with great distinction.” I took the state bar exam the summer after my graduation and passed the exam on my first try.

I returned home to practice law in Bakersfield. I also taught Political Science for several years as an Adjunct Professor at BC. I truly enjoyed being able to give back to the educational institution that had given me such a strong foundation for my collegiate success.

My husband’s career in the oil industry led to our relocation to Houston, Texas. Soon thereafter I was in the oil industry too. We were fortunate to receive transfers back to Bakersfield about three years later. I worked in the oil industry in non-traditional legal roles, including land transactions, complex regulatory matters and media relations for nearly 14 years.

My career has now circled back to the educational environment. I am employed as an attorney by Schools Legal Services, which is located within the Kern County Superintendent of Schools office. We provide legal services to the 46 school districts in Kern County and some outside of Kern County. I see my role as helping our districts be able to focus on the mission of educating the next generation. If I can help them to resolve their legal issues, they can keep that focus.  I was just recently promoted to the position of Assistant General Counsel.  

I am a proud Renegade. I speak to many young people in our community in the course of volunteering at various events and without fail I recommend BC as the best starting place for their college education. Start with your fundamentals there and you cannot go wrong! Go Gades!

Alicia Nourse

My name is Alicia Nourse and I am a proud Bakersfield College alum. I graduated from BC back in 2014 and have no doubts that it led me to where I am today. The staff and resources at BC are most memorable to me. I was a young single mother and that comes with its limitations already. So, when it came to wanting an education, I wasn’t sure how I was going to do it, but I decided to take a chance and make an appointment with an advisor. In talking with my advisor, I was directed to apply for financial aid and a spot for my child in the child development center on campus. I was able to hold a job and take courses because of the assistance given by the child development center. Once I got into the groove of college life and decided I wanted to go “all in” I went back to my advisors and asked for more options. I was then advised to apply for grants and scholarships and with this I was able to quit my job and attend college full-time while being able to pay our rent and provide for my child.

During my time at BC, I had the unfortunate incident of my apartment building catching fire. I thought this was the end of my college career, but BC staff came in and worked together to get me and my child the resources needed to become stable enough to continue in my classes. My advisors reached out to my teachers to let them know of my situation, the child development center put together a fundraiser for us and provided my son new clothes and toys. It was a very heartwarming experience and set the stage for me excelling in my classes and earning a scholarship to California State University, Northridge. I knew I wanted to return to Bakersfield because of the love I was shown by my community. I am now the proud owner of Bakersfield Yoga. I have gone on to create various opportunities for myself and am always inspired by the belonging I felt from this community. Bakersfield College has played a large role in my success. I was unaware of my love for public speaking until the communications department encouraged me to try. I had no direction before my advisor took the time to show me my options and made me dig deep and find my potential. Thank you, Bakersfield College, I am forever grateful.

Introducing our New Team Member Brittnie Belansky

The BC Foundation team has grown, and we are thrilled to introduce Brittnie Belansky, our new Accounting Technician II.

Brittnie was born in Lancaster but raised in Temecula, California. She attended Coastline Community College and earned an AA in Paralegal Studies and Communications. She then worked as a Paralegal for 5 years before realizing her real passion was accounting. In January 2022, she enrolled at Bakersfield College to pursue a degree in accounting. In May 2023, she walked across the stage to receive her AA in Accounting and a Certificate in Bookkeeping during BC’s 109^th commencement.

During her time at BC, Brittnie decided she really loved being here, and that this might be the place where she wanted to work. She initially started her career here at BC as an Executive Secretary for the Office of Student Life, but when the Accounting Technician II position became available at the BC Foundation, she immediately applied. She wanted to utilize her skills in accounting while still supporting BC students, staff, faculty, and alumni.

In her free time, she loves going to the mountains with her fiancé and her dogs. She also enjoys traveling to the central coast to spend time with family.  

The Accounting Technician II is a new position within the BC Foundation and Brittnie is excited to be interacting with all the different departments on campus. Welcome to the team, Brittnie!

Get to Know the BC Foundation Team