March 2025

Vol. 19

From the Executive Director

The BC Foundation is proudly celebrating our 50^th anniversary and we are simultaneously feeling thankful for our first 50 years, as we look ahead with anticipation to the next 50 years!

When President John Collins led the effort to create a 501c3 Foundation to support Bakersfield College, his primary goal was to create a robust scholarship program for students. He was truly onto something! In fact, in just the past 25 years, we’ve awarded more than $13 MILLION in scholarships, thanks to the generosity of supporters like you!

President Collins knew he couldn’t do it alone, so he gathered a team of dedicated individuals—leaders who could turn his vision into reality. Among them were Dean of Students Jack Hernandez, BC Instructor Wiley Jones, Former BC President Ed Simonson, and community members Millie Ablin and Larry Weill.

As we celebrate 50 years of impact, I sometimes wonder—if those original board members could walk across campus today, what would they think? How would they feel seeing the the new buildings on campus and other examples of the difference the BC Foundation has made over five decades?

Fortunately, the Foundation team and our board members are able to hear directly from one of the Foundation’s founding board members, Ken Byrum.

Back in 1975, Ken was a young attorney—a proud BC alumnus—when President Collins asked him to take on the legal work of establishing the Foundation as a 501(c)(3). That decision, nearly 50 years ago, has helped shape the future of thousands of students.

Since then, Ken has remained a dedicated and passionate member of our Board of Directors, always reminding us of our responsibility to be strong stewards of every dollar that comes into the Foundation. He ensures that these funds are well-managed and used as intended—so that they continue making a difference for generations to come.

We appreciate Ken for all he did to set us on a stable path back in 1975, and for all that he and our other BC Foundation board members do to support the college today!

Now is not the time, however, to sit back and simply dwell on accomplishments. This is the time to look ahead and be bold in identifying opportunities to support BC students in new and innovative ways. Scholarships continue to be a key emphasis for the Foundation, and in this academic year, we’ve awarded nearly $970,000 to students! Today, we are also making ground-breaking programs possible, like the recently announced Amazon training partnership that is yet another way the Foundation impacts local industry.

We’re excited to see what the future holds for the Bakersfield College Foundation. If you’d like to join us in creating that future, please be in touch!

Wishing you a lovely spring,

Cheryl Scott

BC Foundation Celebrates 50 years
at 17th Annual Sterling Silver

The Bakersfield College Foundation marked a milestone anniversary with its annual Sterling Silver Gala on Saturday, March 15, celebrating 50 years of supporting Bakersfield College. The evening, presented by S.C. Anderson, was hosted at the Renegade Event Center on BC’s main campus and brought together generous supporters and the local community dedicated to making a difference for current and future Renegades.

This year’s gala honored individuals and organizations whose contributions have profoundly impacted BC students. The 2025 honorees included:

Philanthropists of the Year

Southern California Orthopedic Institute (SCOI) – Dr. Mark Schamblin and Dr. Jarrad Merriman – Dr. Schamblin, a Bakersfield native, and Dr. Merriman, a proud BC alum, have been dedicated supporters of Renegade Athletics since 2019. As the dedicated orthopedists for BC’s athletic teams, they have contributed over 1,000 hours of expert care, ensuring that student-athletes receive immediate and high-quality medical attention, regardless of their sport.

The Manohara Family Foundation – Jayashree Manohara established the Manohara Family Foundation in 2016 in honor of her late husband, Dr. Manohara. Inspired by their shared belief in education and healthcare, she created the Manohara Nursing Scholarship at BC to support students facing significant hardships while pursuing careers in nursing. Thanks to her generosity, more than 60 students have received scholarships in just the past three years, helping them overcome obstacles and enter a field where they can return the impact.

Bakersfield College Service Medal

Morgan Clayton – This year’s Bakersfield College Service Medal honoree is a proud BC alumnus who has remained connected to his alma mater. As the founder of Tel-Tec in 1982, Morgan Clayton credits BC with paving the way for his achievements and has continuously given back to the college in meaningful ways. His generosity and leadership have supported initiatives such as the Launchpad entrepreneur program, Umoja, the BC Archives, and the Alumni Association. His commitment to BC has left a lasting impact, inspiring students and strengthening our entire community.

A special moment of the evening was dedicated to Ken Byrum, one of the founding members of the Foundation board and the attorney who drew up the legal documents to create the foundation in 1975. Remarkably, he remains on the board to this day! Mr. Byrum shared heartfelt words, reflecting on the Foundation’s impact over the decades, and he was presented with a special gift in appreciation of his years of service.

As always, the delicious food was prepared by BC’s talented culinary students and chefs, showcasing their skills through a fantastic menu. While enjoying their meals, the BC Jazz Ensemble set the perfect ambiance, filling the evening with incredible live music.

Proceeds from the event benefited the Sterling Silver and Culinary scholarships, ensuring that students continue to receive the support they need to achieve their educational goals. The night was filled with gratitude, celebration, and a shared commitment to shaping the future of Bakersfield College for generations to come.

Thank You To Our 17th Annual Sterling Silver Sponsors:

Grand Opening of the BC Arvin Educational Center

Bakersfield College officially celebrated the long-anticipated opening of its Arvin Educational Center with a vibrant community event featuring mariachi music, Folklorico dancers, and speakers who played a key role in making this milestone possible. Hundreds gathered to celebrate the occasion, recognizing its significance for the region. More than 500 students are already being served, and BC is only expecting that number to grow.

The Arvin Educational Center provides a dedicated space for higher education in the community, eliminating barriers for students in Arvin and Lamont who usually have to travel to Bakersfield for college courses. The facility is designed to support student success, featuring multiple classrooms, computer and science labs, a library, tutoring and writing centers, faculty offices, and essential student resources like a food pantry and lactation room.

With the help of the Bakersfield College Foundation, the project was made possible through Measure J, the 2016 bond measure that provided funding for facility upgrades across Bakersfield College.

What was once a vision is now a place where students can learn, grow, and succeed, bringing higher education within reach for the surrounding community.

Bakersfield College Foundation Partners with Amazon

The Bakersfield College Foundation has committed $1.37 million to expand workforce training through a powerful partnership with Amazon. As one of just five institutions nationwide selected to offer Amazon’s Mechatronic Robotic Apprenticeship (MRA) program, Bakersfield College is set to strengthen career education and workforce development in Kern County.

“At the Bakersfield College Foundation, our mission is to support initiatives that create real opportunities for students and strengthen our local workforce,” said Cheryl Scott, Executive Director of the Bakersfield College Foundation. “This partnership with Amazon is a perfect example of how strategic investments in education can transform lives and industries.”

The MRA program will provide students with industry-recognized certifications and direct career pathways in advanced industrial maintenance, meeting the growing demand for skilled workers in Kern County’s expanding industrial sector. “By working alongside Amazon, we’re ensuring students gain the skills needed to thrive in today’s workforce,” said Rozanne Hernandez, Bakersfield College’s Dean of Career Technical Education.

“This is what career technical education should be—effective, and directly connected to industry needs,” said Dr. Jerry E. Fliger, President of Bakersfield College. “Working together with industry leaders like Amazon bridges education and workforce development. Because of this collaboration, BC will provide individuals with real skills that lead to high-paying, in-demand jobs.”

This shared vision goes beyond education—it’s an investment in Kern County’s economic future, ensuring local talent can stay in the region while securing competitive wages in an evolving industry.

For more information about Bakersfield College’s career technical education programs, visit the Career Education page on the Bakersfield College website.

BC Alumni Spotlight: What’s Your BC Story?

Sarah Truchon – Class of 2021

My time at Bakersfield College was a journey of exploration and self-discovery. When I first started, I was drawn to many different subjects, each one fascinating in its own way. But as I explored different career fields, I realized that art was the common thread connecting them all. It wasn’t just a passion; it was the foundation of how I understood the world. BC gave me the space to experiment, learn, and ultimately embrace art as my path.

The faculty and community at BC played a huge role in shaping me into the artist I am today. I learned not only technical skills, but also the importance of storytelling, emotion, and connection in my work. I discovered that art isn’t just about creating. It is about communicating, challenging perspectives, and bringing people together. That realization continues to drive my work as I pursue my Master of Fine Arts, pushing the boundaries of my creativity and deepening my artistic voice.

While I work toward my MFA, I also have the privilege of working with the Girl Scouts, helping shape the leaders of tomorrow. Just as BC helped me find my calling, I strive to inspire young minds to explore, create, and lead with confidence. My journey started with curiosity, transformed through education, and continues with purpose. Bakersfield College was not just a stepping stone, it was the foundation that helped me find my path and pursue it with passion.

Sarah’s journey from Bakersfield College to pursuing her Master of Fine Arts is a testament to the power of exploration and passion. After earning her Associate in Art degree at BC in 2021, she continued her education at CSU Bakersfield before advancing to the University of Nevada, where she will soon complete her MFA. Now, as a marketing generalist for the Girl Scouts and a freelance artist, Sarah blends creativity with purpose, inspiring the next generation while continuing to push the boundaries of her own artistry.

Donor Spotlight: Corvettes of Bakersfield

FUELING OPPORTUNITIES WITH SCHOLARSHIPS

Corvettes of Bakersfield (COB) have been a staple of the local car community since 1967, bringing together enthusiasts who share a passion for cars. But beyond their love for Corvettes, the club is committed to giving back — one way being their support for our Renegades at Bakersfield College.

In 2021, the Corvettes of Bakersfield established a scholarship, specifically benefiting students in the BC Automotive Technology Program. Their motivation? A desire to give back to the community while ensuring the future of the automotive industry remains strong in Bakersfield.

With the local automotive industry employing around 6,500 people – 40% in parts and service – there is a strong demand for skilled technicians. BC’s program provides hands-on training in both fuel and electric vehicles, ensuring students are ready for the workforce. Because of this scholarship, COB is able to create a meaningful bridge between students’ education and career success. “By helping local students pursue their career choice, we are proud and feel assured that the community’s automotive needs will be met when the needs arise,” a COB representative shared.

Corvettes of Bakersfield grants scholarships to multiple students each semester, allowing them to focus on their studies without the burden of financial stress. To fund the scholarship, club members volunteer their time and energy to host exciting Corvette car shows that draw enthusiasts and the community’s support.

But for COB, this scholarship is about more than just financial support – it’s about mentorship, encouragement, and fostering a lasting connection between students and the local car community. Scholarship recipients are invited to club meetings, where they get to share their experiences and see firsthand that there are people rooting for their success.

One memorable moment came during the Streets of Bakersfield Car Show, when COB invited scholarship recipients to help judge car entries alongside longtime members. “Seeing the impressionable youth with our seasoned “old guys” spend that time together was a delight,” they recall. “It was their first time at a large car event, experiencing volunteerism in action and learning that there are so many opportunities waiting for them.”

Through their dedication to supporting BC’s Automotive Technology students, Corvettes of Bakersfield is not only fueling careers but also strengthening the future of the local automotive industry. Thanks to their generosity and dedication, more students can pursue their dreams with fewer financial worries, allowing them to focus on their education and future careers.

Celebrating Success: BC Students Shine at
Livermore Lab Foundation 2024 Summer Fellowship

CREL is thrilled to spotlight the remarkable achievements of Bakersfield College Industrial Automation students, Eric Hall and Wyatt Hunter, who recently completed the highly esteemed Livermore Lab Foundation 2024 Summer Fellowship. This competitive 10-week onsite internship at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) , one of the nation’s premier applied science and research institutions, provided an exceptional platform for both students to enhance their skills and make significant contributions to the field of industrial automation and renewable energy development.

Eric Hall’s Innovation in Computerized Manufacturing

Eric Hall’s project during his fellowship was a transformative endeavor in Computerized Manufacturing. Tasked with converting a legacy manual Bridgeport mill into a state-of-the-art CNC mill, Eric’s work involved precise mechanical work and illustrated his thorough understanding of electrical controls. The project involved designing and installing a new control panel, wiring, servo motors, and a sophisticated CNC controller. His meticulous work ensured that the outdated machine was upgraded to modern standards, akin to converting a classic car into a cutting-edge, self-driving vehicle. This innovation not only improved the mill’s efficiency but also significantly enhanced the productivity of LLNL’s machinists.

Eric reflects on his experience, noting, “The best part of my fellowship at LLNL this summer was learning from the people who spend each day pushing the boundaries of science and engineering. They were also willing to share their expertise to help me succeed.” Looking ahead, Eric hopes to return to LLNL as an electronics technologist, aiming to further support their critical manufacturing capabilities. The skills he acquired during his fellowship will undoubtedly enhance his troubleshooting abilities and deepen his expertise in industrial control systems.

Wyatt Hunter’s Impact on Electronics Fabrication

Wyatt Hunter’s project focused on a crucial aspect of LLNL’s mission: electronics fabrication. Wyatt was tasked with developing and refining electronic components for the National Ignition Facility’s flash lamp testing. His project involved fabricating a control chassis that integrated inputs and outputs from high-voltage power supplies into a unified control system. The final product met all design specifications, demonstrating his expertise in electronics fabrication and his commitment to advancing LLNL’s technological capabilities.

Wyatt is enthusiastic about leveraging the skills and knowledge gained from his LLNL experience to pursue future internships and career opportunities. He shared, “I plan to continue my education and achieve my bachelor’s degree. I hope to work in a career field where my work will be used to make a meaningful contribution towards our country’s goals and needs.”

“Wyatt and Eric did an outstanding job this summer,” noted Randolph ‘Randy’ Pico, LLNL’s Senior Superintendent for Engineering.  “Fellowship programs like this benefit the statewide technical workforce, by providing highly contextualized job support. We appreciate the partnership with CREL and the Kern Community College District and look forward to hosting more students, via the Livermore Lab Foundation’s fellowship program in the future.” 

Valley Strong Energy Institute’s Vital Support

The successful completion of Eric and Wyatt’s fellowships was significantly supported by a sponsorship from the Valley Strong Energy Institute. Their generous contribution made it possible for these students to fully engage in the internship experience. This support underscores the Valley Strong Energy Institute’s commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders in Kern County’s energy sector.  In addition, the KCCD Board of Trustees recently approved a memorandum of understanding between CREL and the Livermore Lab Foundation to enhance STEM partnerships, workforce development and experiential learning.  The Foundation serves as a key philanthropy partner to Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, with funding support for science and research initiatives, STEM education and student fellowships.

A Bright Future Ahead

Congratulations to Eric and Wyatt for their impressive accomplishments and for representing Bakersfield College with such distinction at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.  

Bakersfield College Introduces New Logo

Bakersfield College is embracing a new look! The college has unveiled an updated logo, bringing a fresh visual identity while continuing to honor BC’s rich history and traditions.

Featuring a bold shield emblem and strong “BC” lettering, the design reflects the college’s enduring commitment to students, community, and excellence. Whether on campus, online, or in outreach efforts, this new logo represents an exciting new chapter for Bakersfield College.

Keep an eye out for the refreshed design as it’s a new era for Renegade spirit!

Ways to Give to Bakersfield College

Supporting Bakersfield College is a powerful way to impact the lives of our students and contribute to their future success. Your generosity ensures that students receive the support they need to achieve their educational and career goals! Here’s how you can make a difference:

BC Foundation Team