Monthly Archives: August 2020

Bakersfield College – A Peace Garden of Learning, Reflection & Renewal

Uncategorized August 29, 2020 Comments: 2

Have you met Dr. Naina Patel? Well, she is a quiet force in our community promoting peace and wellbeing. I got to work alongside Naina last year as she she was coordinating the Gandhi celebrations here in Bakersfield. During these celebrations, we had the fortune of having Mahatma Gandhi’s grandson Arun Gandhi speak to the students in our Early College Program in Delano. What a treat! Check this out in my October 5, 2019 blog titled – Live simply so others can simply live https://sonyachristianblog.com/2019/10/05/live-simply-so-others-can-simply-live/

Here is a 9:31-minute video from Opening Week where we unveiled the Peace Garden project. If you don’t have time to watch the whole video, then start at the 6:56 timestamp and hear the message from Dr. Naina Patel and the Gandhi committee.

Good morning Bakersfield.
It is Saturday, August 29, 2020…a great day to be a Renegade

Friends, let me introduce you to Abel Guzman, BC’s Exec Director of Rural Initiatives. You will see why he is a “20 under 40 to watch”.

If you want to read more check https://www.bakersfield.com/bakersfield-life/20-under-40-people-to-watch-abel-guzman/article_ca10b660-db37-11ea-85b3-2fe32045cc28.html

Community Voices

Romeo Agbalog, Trustee for the Kern Community College District, wrote a great piece in the Bakersfield Californian highlighting the work the college has done to continue providing quality education to our students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In the midst of widespread unemployment and economic austerity, now has never been a better time to enroll at Bakersfield College. While most of us are sheltered in place, we can take advantage of this time to upskill or chart a new career path to compete in tomorrow’s job market, or post-COVID-19 economy, and be able to do this all from the comfort and safety of your own home.”

Slowing Down

Here is another poem from the fabulous Jack Hernandez:

He did not notice
his steps were less
quick jaunty
a past tense,
then he heard
he was slowing
down to that pace
reserved for snails
and wobbling legs.

He rejected those words
even as young walkers
passed him as though
a sign stuck in place,
“slow” is a relative
term he thought,
philosophy giving him
the nudge he needed.

Panorama Creative Music Summit Goes Virtual

Presented by the Jazz Studies and Commercial Music programs at Bakersfield College, the Panorama Creative Music Summit is an annual showcase for acclaimed musicians, local performers, and BC faculty, students, and alumni performing original music and exploring a range of styles and creative approaches across the jazz-pop continuum.

Ordinarily the summit takes over our beloved Simonsen Performing Arts Center for a weeklong series of workshops and live concerts. This year, thanks to support from the Lydia Jennings Finlinson and Burns L. Finlinson Endowment of the Bakersfield College Foundation, the music summit is transitioning to an online format that will feature weekly live sessions with guest artists.

Each artist will give a 20-30 minute solo performance followed by an artist talk and Q&A with students. These sessions will be held on Zoom and broadcast free to the public via Facebook Live on the Bakersfield College Jazz Studies page.

Check out Blue Bayou performed by Josh Ottum and Kris Tiner for Opening Week.

#LightACandle: A Juneteenth Conversation

I am continuing to share videos from Bakersfield College’s #LightACandle: A Juneteenth Conversation productions from June. Today, I am wrapping up with the videos from the June 17th program.

Daron Mackey, Educational Advisor with Outreach & School Relations:

Traco Matthews, Social Pastor and Adjunct Professor:

Please visit the Bakersfield College website to see more videos, testimonials and resources from the #LightACandle project.

BC Foundation presents online newsletter

Did you catch the premiere issue of the Bakersfield College Foundation‘s new newsletter, Panorama?

This first issue includes a welcome from the Foundation’s new executive director, Cheryl Scott. Previously Cheryl served on the foundation’s board of directors for 7 years, and was also active in the Measure J campaign.

Bakersfield College Foundation Executive Director Cheryl Scott and I

I also loved seeing the “Your BC Story” section of the Panorama newsletter. This issue featured Bob Meadows, Class of 1975. Bob wrote about his time writing for the Renegade Rip and how he met his wife Vicki at BC:

“I grew up at BC, I discovered my abilities at BC, I overcame challenged at BC, and I found love at BC. My life’s foundation was built at BC and has supported me ever since. Thank you Bakersfield College.”

“Your BC Story” will be a regular feature in the Panorama newsletter, and I am excited to hear from more of our proud alums. Those interested in sharing their stories can fill out the form on the Foundation website.

You can read the newsletter on the Bakersfield College Foundation’s website. Thank you Cheryl Scott and Heather Penella.

  • Olivia Garcia, Heather Pennella
  • Nan Gomez, Heitzeberg, Heather Pennella, Sonya Christian
BC’s MESA Program in the news

Bakersfield College faculty and students recap the first week of virtual learning by Tyra Majors

https://tinyurl.com/y2agtdaw

#GoodTrouble: Celebrating the Life of John Lewis

This week, I am sharing two videos from Bakersfield College’s #GoodTrouble: Celebrating the Life of John Lewis production. These videos focus on Congressman Lewis’ political contributions.

R. Allen Bolar, BC Political Science Professor:

Michael Bowers, Vice President of Public Affairs & Government Relations at Centric Health California:

You can see all the videos from the #GoodTrouble production on the Bakersfield College website.

Opening Week 2020

This Thursday, we wrapped up our Opening Day celebration. This year’s celebration was virtual, and ended up spanning two weeks, with five days of productions.

I’d like to share my introductory remarks from Day 1 of the Opening Week festivities:

Commencement 2020

As you may know, this year the Bakersfield College Commencement celebration went virtual with a Special Televised Commencement Tribute broadcast on July 11, 2020 on KGET, Telemundo and steaming on Facebook.

Today, I’d like to share a few videos from that production.

There’s a Pathway for Everyone at Bakersfield College:

Health Sciences Program Spotlight:

Graduates Part 5:

Videos and photos from this year’s Commencement festivities, including the Early College celebration, can be found on the Bakersfield College website.

Spotted on Social Media

I wanted to share this heartwarming post from Jessie Ryan, executive vice president at The Campaign for College Opportunity:

Heart bursting: My daughter asked me to take her to Target tonight to use the allowance she had saved to buy some special school supplies – our first outing in weeks. Unfortunately, Target was closed due to a COVID case. Brooklyn was disappointed but as we drove home she saw an elderly homeless woman. Without thinking twice she produced her $20 bill and said, “Mother pull over and give it to her.” “Are you sure honey, that’s all your savings”. She didn’t hesitate, “Yes, she needs it more than me”

Endee Grijalva, Adult Education Program Manager for South Kern, modeled her new Bakersfield College mask (and fantastic Renegade Red hair!):

And in honor of National Dog Day this week, I’d like to share a few of the posts I caught from our Renegade family. Carlos Medina, Lesley Bonds, and Mindy Wilmot all shared pictures of their pets:

Athletics

Throwing it back to the beginning of Renegade Athletics

We are just a few years short of the 100th anniversary of Renegade Athletics in the year 2022. Originally with just a football team founded in 1922, the department has grown to its current total of 20 men’s and women’s sports over the last century. In the process our Renegade athletic teams have captured a total of 184 team conference championships, 15 state championships and 10 national championships. In addition they have won countless individual conference and state championships in a variety of sports. Pictured above is the original 1922 Renegade football team (thanks to our fabulous BC Archives team). This makes our football program one of the oldest in the state! 

Jon Baker finds success as an agent

I wanted to share this article from the Bakersfield Californian about Bakersfield native Jon Baker, who is a successful sports agent. Jon was a star athlete at both Foothill High School and Bakersfield College.

Renegade football runs deep in the Baker family – Jon’s father, William Baker was hired as the team’s official doctor in 1979.

And Jon has continued to assist the BC football team. R. Todd Littlejohn, who was hired as BC head football coach in January, is represented by Jon and said that Jon’s connections have been helpful to him in his new role.

“He can point out people to me that I need to get involved with. When you’re gone and you’ve been away for so long, your pool of people might get smaller.

That’s all for now.
Until next time.
With much Renegade Pride and Collegiality.
sonya –
the luckiest and happiest college president ever

2020 Opening Week – BC coming together

Uncategorized August 22, 2020 Comments: 2

Mango is my favorite fruit. Growing up we had 5 mango trees at home. The last week in July, my daughter got me a box of ripe mangoes. They were just fabulous…. the best I have tasted after coming to the US.

I learned from her that mango farming is gaining momentum in California. Check out this article from Sunset Magazine called “Mango Madness,” about how Howard Marguleas successfully brought a thriving mango crop to California. While everyone told him he couldn’t grow mangoes in California, he refused to accept that and managed to find a variety that grew beautifully in the desert of the Coachella Valley. It was a great reminder that even when we are facing obstacles and naysayers, sometimes a little creativity, innovation, and perseverance can lead to great results. And now, my hope is that mangoes will become more of a common fruit here in sunny California.

Good morning Bakersfield.
It is Saturday, August 22, 2020…a great day to be a Renegade

Opening Day

This week we moved our traditional Opening Day celebration to a week-long, virtual format. We met on Zoom on Monday and Tuesday. Technical issues prevented us from being able to share a production on Wednesday – but the Opening Day planning team was able to quickly find a solution, and we moved to a new format on Thursday.

We will be sharing the final pieces of programming over two days this coming week, on Tuesday and Thursday at 4:00 p.m.. I’m so proud of our team for always being able to pivot and adapt to any circumstances. We truly are #RenegadeStrong and #InItTogether

We are still working on getting all of last week’s programming uploaded to the Bakersfield College website, but I wanted to share this sneak peak of Monday’s welcome from our fabulous emcees: Todd Coston, Tommy Tunson, Norma Rojas, and Manny Mourtzanos.

New Student Convocation

This week, Bakersfield College’s annual New Student Convocation moved online.

Thank you to Student Life Director Nicky Damania and everyone whose hard work helped BC continue the tradition of welcoming new students into the Renegade Family. We are BC!

If you missed Tuesday’s presentation, you can catch the entire video on the BCSGA YouTube channel:

Commencement

All the videos from the special 2020 106th Commencement Televised Event can be seen at https://www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/admissions/2020-commencement-ceremony.

State Senator Shannon Grove addressed our graduates:

Throughout the evening, the production spotlighted various programs at Bakersfield College. One of those was the Public Safety pathway:

We also shared this spotlight on the Early College program:

Speaking of Early College, I’m closing out sharing the Early College Celebration videos this week. I have saved our student speakers for last.

Logan Stout was the student speaker from Wonderful College Prep Academy:

And Nancy Gutierrez was the student speaker from Wasco High School:

You can find out more about the Early College program on the Bakersfield College website.

#GoodTrouble: Celebrating the Life of John Lewis

I am continuing to share videos from the July 29 #GoodTrouble production in partnership between Bakersfield College and Danny Morrison.

Today’s videos are a reflection of the life and legacy of Mr. Lewis.

Cindy Pollard:

Traco Matthews shared John Lewis’ speech on the 50th anniversary of the Selma March:

You can learn more about the production, and see all the videos, on the Bakersfield College website.

#LightACandle: A Juneteenth Conversation

Continuing to share with you videos from Bakersfield College’s #LightACandle: A Juneteenth Conversation series of events.

Today, I am sharing three videos from the June 17 production.

Christina Springstead, owner of Ideal Exec Business Consulting and Support Services:

Michael Bowers, Vice President of Public Affairs and Government Relations at Centric Health California:

NaTesha Johnson, President of Upside Productions:

You can find more information and an archive of all the videos on the #LightACandle web page.

Spotted on Social Media

Performing Arts Department Chair Jennifer Garrett‘s family has a new puppy, and I loved getting to see new pictures of Remi this week:

Check out this great photo of Astronomy Professor and Planetarium Director Nick Strobel‘s beautiful family:

Rural Initiatives Executive Director Abel Guzman shared this photo of his team getting ready for the new semester:

Athletics

Guillory Headed to University of LA College of Divinity

Congrats to our newest Renegade to make the announcement of signing to continue their academic and athletic career to the four-year school level. This week it was Michael Guillory from Men’s Basketball. Michael is headed to University of Los Angeles College of Divinity who were national champions of the Association of Christian College Athletics (ACCA) with a 30-1 record. We are excited for Michael and know he will do well at his next stop!

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That’s all for now.
Until next time.
With much Renegade Pride and Collegiality.
sonya –
the luckiest and happiest college president ever

Bakersfield College – A blessing to our community

Uncategorized August 15, 2020 1 Comment

Received this beautiful sunrise photo yesterday morning from a friend that does morning walks in the Northeast while I take Neo for morning walks in the southwest. The awakening and active sky is reflected in Mirror Pond which is located at the entrance to Hart Park. The text with the photo came with this message “Did you see this morning’s sunrise blessing?” Yes indeed… a beautiful sunrise is a blessing, and so is my friend.

Good morning Bakersfield
It is Saturday, August 15, 2020, India’s Independence Day…And always a great day to be a Renegade

COVID-19 Virtual Forums

This week, I restarted my virtual seminar series on COVID-19.

On Wednesday, 197 attendees tuned in to hear from Bill Potter, Executive Director of Facilities & Planning; Cindy Collier, Interim Director – Health Center; Heather Baltis, Faculty – Agriculture; and Alisha Loken, Faculty – Nursing, as we discussed plans as Bakersfield College transitions into Fall 2020.

Please visit https://www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/covid19 for information about Bakersfield College’s response to COVID-19.

Corny Rodriguez

  • Corny smiles with box
    Corny Rodriguez with Trustee Agbalog
  • Smiling with woman.
    Dean Corny Rodriguez

I was delighted to see this column from Jose Gaspar congratulating retiring Dean of Instruction Corny Rodriguez for his work in mentoring students, and taking a look back at his incredible career.

I am deeply grateful for the time that Corny has given to Bakersfield College, and I wish him well in his retirement.

Although, I did make note of this quote from the end of the column:

“I’m not going away. I’m still involved,” said Rodriguez.

  • corny-rodriguez-olivia-garcia

Superstar in Bakersfield

Erin Miller

I was also pleased to see this article in the Bakersfield Californian about Eoghan Kerry, rising Centennial football star, who will be transferring to Santa Ana-Mater Dei.

Eoghan is the son of BC History Professor Erin Miller.

Erin shared her apprehension, and excitement, for her son:

“A lot of it for me as a parent is being risk averse. I wanted to get other people’s opinions because there are people in this world who take risks that they never should have taken. And it costs them dearly. And then there are people that should have taken a risk but fail to embrace the challenge. I wanted to embrace the opportunity for him instead of being my usual risk-averse self.”

I would like to extend a congratulations from the entire Renegade community to Erin & Eoghan – we can’t wait to hear what great things will come!

New Student Convocation

Every year, new students are welcomed to campus in a New Student Convocation event. This year, the event will be going virtual. I encoruage all new BC Renegades to take part in these festivities on Tuesday, August 18, at 6 pm.

The word convocation literally means a “calling together.” Beyond welcoming students to the community, students will also learn critical information about navigating college life, the importance of getting involved on campus, and strategies for being successful. Thank you Nicky Damania for making this happen every year. It is one of my favorite events.

Find out more and register at https://www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/convocation.

Beautiful gift from the Mettlers to support Early College Eg students

This week, the Bakersfield College Foundation received a significant financial gift from the Clifford and Patricia Mettler estate to support 120 students enrolled in BC’s Agriculture Pathways Early College program.

You can read more about the donation on the Bakersfield Californian, KGET, KERO, or 23ABC websites.

Commencement & Early College Celebration

I’m continuing to share the video segments from the 106th Commencement, which aired on July 11.

History Professor Olivia Garcia spoke as recipient of the Samuel W. McCall Outstanding Faculty award:

Congressman TJ Cox shared a message for the graduates:

And Part 4 of our Graduate recognition:

All the videos from our special 2020 106th Commencement Televised Event can be seen at https://www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/admissions/2020-commencement-ceremony.

The Bakersfield College Early College Celebration was also held virtually this year, via Zoom. Today, I am sharing two videos from Wasco High School.

Principal Kevin Tallon:

Ag Prep Coordinator David Abernathy:

Learn more about Early College at https://www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/earlycollege.

#LightACandle: A Juneteenth Conversation

A segment of the June 17 program focused on interactions between police and the Black community. I’d like to share those videos today.

The segment began with part of the June 4 #RealTalk on Race in America with Danny Morrison, Julian West, and Reggie Bolton, as they speak about unity:

That was followed with comments from the June 10 #RealTalk on Race, which featured the Bakersfield Police Department. Assistant Police Chief Joe Mullins and Chief of Police Greg Terry shared their thoughts:

Tommy Tunson, Bakersfield College Director of Public Safety Training Programs, spoke about transformational policing:

Lyle Martin, Chief Investigator with the Kern County District Attorney’s Office, wrapped up the segment:

Learn more about Bakersfield College’s Juneteenth programming online at https://www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/aai/lightacandle-a-juneteenth-conversation.

#GoodTrouble: Celebrating the Life of John Lewis

I am continuing to share videos from the July 29 #GoodTrouble production in partnership between Bakersfield College and Danny Morrison.

Today I am sharing a few videos that show some biographical and historical context of John Lewis’ life. Please check for the panoramic photo of John Lewis’ congressional office (in History Professor Oliver Rosales‘ video), taken by English Professor Andrew Bond.

Oliver Rosales, BC History Professor:

Keith Wolaridge, BC Adjunct Professor & Panama Buena Vista Union School District Trustee:

Jamal Wright, BC History Professor:

You can learn more about the production, and see all the videos, on the Bakersfield College website.

Closing Week

This week, I am sharing the final set of videos from our Closing Week Celebration

During our Pre-show on Thursday, we shared a message for our students from President’s Cabinet:

Here are the introduction and conclusion videos for Thursday from Information Technology Director Todd Coston. Todd was an amazing emcee during our entire Opening Week!

Introduction:

Conclusion:

Todd did a fantastic job with our Closing Week celebration. His passion and humor in all aspects of his job is part of the reason he received the final President’s Leadership Award for 2020:

And of course, we had to finish our week with a fireworks celebration:

You can view all our Closing Week 2020 videos on the Bakersfield College Closing Week 2020 website.

We are currently gearing up for our virtual Opening Week celebration, this Monday-Thursday. I will be sharing videos from this production in future blog posts.

Spotted on Social Media

BCSGA has been sharing #ThrowbackThursday photos on their Twitter and Instagram pages. This week, they shared a picture of the CSS Building lunch area in the 1950s:

Dean of Academic Technology Bill Moseley retweeted this photo of ways to connect with students during distance education:

Abel Guzman, Executive Director of Rural Initiatives, shared this shout out to his team. This week, Wasco Union High School District teachers were able to sign up for an Introduction to Online Learning Environments class.

Athletics

A Heavy Week to The Heart In Athletics

This last week our Renegade family has seen four members pass on. Our thought, prayers and sincere condolences go out to the families and friends of each one of these individuals. We are grateful for the impact that each one has had, and the joy they brought others.

Keithen Estrada

Keithen Estrada had just finished a stellar two-year career as a Renegade Wrestler when we learned of his passing this last week at the young age of 21. In both 2018 and 2019 he placed 7th in the CCCAA State Finals in the 125 lb. weight class. Head Wrestling Coach Brett Clark had this to say about him – “First thing that comes to mind is his infectious smile, his great personality. He had a bright future ahead of him and we’re going to miss him.”. Co-Head Coach Marcos Austion also had this to say “Keithen was an absolute joy to be around on and off the mat. His charisma and lightheartedness was often the reason our teams gelled. He was a leader and a standout athlete. He will be missed greatly.”

The wake for Keithen will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 26th 6-8pm and the funeral will be on Thursday, Aug. 27th at 10am. Services will be held at Basham Funeral Care on 3312 Niles St. All attendees are required to wear a face mask and donations can be made to Basham Funeral Care under Keithen Estrada.

Andre Spencer

The only Renegade Men’s Basketball student athlete to go on and play in the NBA was Andre Spencer. Andre played for BC from 1982-1984 and would go on to play at Northern Arizona University before a long professional career in the CBA, Europe, Israel and the NBA. Andre was just 56 years old at the time of his passing last week. New Head of Men’s basketball operations Aaron Chavez had this to say about Andre – “Andre was someone who cared so much for the BC men’s basketball program. His accomplishments are second to none. He may arguably be the best Renegade of all-time.” After retiring officially from playing professional basketball Andre had devoted himself to coaching young talent in the southern California area and giving back to the game.

Bill ‘The Goat’ Nelson

Former BC Kinesiology professor and Golf/Basketball Coach Bill ‘The Goat’ Nelson was a well-loved figure around Renegade athletics for almost 40 years. He coached the men’s golf team from 1966-2002 and had a stint as the men’s basketball coach from 1967-1973. After retiring from the Bakersfield College ranks it wasn’t uncommon to see Coach Nelson drifting on his bass boat or handing out coaching tips on the course. Head Men’s Golf Coach Wes Coble had this to say about Bill – “His presence, humor and friendship will be missed by many. I only hope that I can fill just a small portion of the massive footprint he left on Bakersfield College Athletics and the golf community. I will miss him dearly,” 

Herb Walker

A legend in the Bakersfield Community, Herb Walker lived life to the fullest and always gave back to the community throughout his entire 87 years of life. Herb attended BC after serving in the U.S. Navy. He both swam and played football for the Renegades when the college was still located on the grounds of Bakersfield High School. His community involvement extended to active participation in the Fox Theatre Restoration, the Downtown Business Association, and the inaugural Garces Gala. Herb’s service and love for Bakersfield culminated in his being honored in 2008 as the East Side Sons of St. Patrick Leprechaun of the Year and in 2009 the National Herb Walker Day by the City of Bakersfield.

That’s all for now.
Until next time.
With much Renegade Pride and Collegiality.
sonya –
the luckiest and happiest college president ever

Hello August

Uncategorized August 9, 2020 Leave a comment

As I was preparing for Opening Week of activities prior to the start of the fall semester, I enjoyed this video which was put together for the #LightACandle: A Juneteenth Conversation production. Maya Angelou’s poem “Still I Rise” is such a powerful piece. Enjoy!

Thank you to web content editor Valerie Urso for the care in producing this video.

Good morning Bakersfield
It is Saturday, August 8, 2020…A great day to be a Renegade

This week, I headed out to our physical campus, to check out the Measure J construction work.

Express Enrollment

Bakersfield College is holding an extended One-Day Virtual Express Enrollment Event for new and returning students on August 12, 2020 from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Counselors and support staff will be available to assist students with their registration process, placement, enrollment and financial aid.

Thank you to Ashlea Ward, Program Manager for Outreach and Early College, and our entire Outreach team for your hard work in ensuring students are still able to easily register for courses while we continue our social distancing.

John Lewis

On Wednesday, July 29, Bakersfield College and Danny Morrison teamed up again to celebrate John Lewis and his legacy of #GoodTrouble.

Today, I will begin to share the videos from that production, starting – naturally – with the opening segment.

Steve Watkin, Executive Director of Outreach & Early College, provided the opening remarks:

Danny Morrison of Danny Morrison Media also provided opening remarks. (And a special thank you to Danny for using his Facebook to livestream the production.)

Julian West, Program Lead for Racial Equity, recited the speech John Lewis gave at the 1963 March on Washington.

Community member Nina Grae performed “We Shall Overcome”:

You can learn more about the production, and see all the videos, on the Bakersfield College website.

#LightACandle: A Juneteenth Conversation

As you may know, Bakersfield College created a multi-day #LightACandle: A Juneteenth Conversation series of programs back in June. I am continuing to share videos, today from the June 17 production.

Assembly Member Vince Fong shared his remarks:

And Kern County Board of Supervisors Chair Leticia Perez also shared a message:

Please visit https://www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/aai/lightacandle-a-juneteenth-conversation to see all the videos from each day of the #LightACandle: A Juneteenth Conversation programming.

Immigration Clinics Full for August

Bakersfield College has partnered with the UFW Foundation to provide free legal consultations for BC students, faculty and staff who need assistance with immigration legal aspects. These free clinics are held monthly, on the 2nd Tuesday and Friday and the 4th Thursday and Friday of every month. 

August has already been fully booked – the next available session will be held September 11, 2020. In order to schedule your appointment, fill out the request form. All appointments are conducted virtually via Zoom for the duration of the pandemic. 

BC Nursing Students help pass out PPE

Ema Sasic of The Bakersfield Californian wrote a wonderful article about how BC nursing students helped pass out PPE to about 155 Kern County medical practices on Thursday.

The California Medical Association partnered with the California Office of Emergency Services for the event, and more than 40 BC students volunteered to help out.

Commencement

I’m continuing to share the video segments from the 106th Commencement, which aired on July 11.

As part of the programming, we shared a feature on Bakersfield College’s Industrial Automation program:

And then, of course, we celebrated this year’s recipients of our Baccalaurate Degree in Industrial Automation:

All the videos from our special 2020 106th Commencement Televised Event can be seen at https://www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/admissions/2020-commencement-ceremony.

Early College

Our Early College Celebration was held virtually this year. I’m sharing some more videos from that production today.

Elysa Vargas, Director of Ag Prep at The Wonderful Company, addressed our graduates:

Emily Phelps, Associate Director of College Readiness at The Wonderful Company, also shared a message:

Transfer Graduates

Did you know Bakersfield College also has a virtual Transfer Celebration web page?

This week, I’d like to share a few of our transfer students:

Kayla Wilson will be studying Political Science and History at CSU Sacramento.

Andrew Raymond will study Mechanical Engineering at CSU Fresno.

CSU Mid Year Transfer Workshops

For all students interested in transferring and starting at a CSU in the Spring of 2021! Join for CSU application help and transfer advising! All workshops will be online, please fill out an interest form to receive Zoom details, visit the Bakersfield College transfer website for more information or email bc_transfer@bakersfieldcollege.edu.

Workshops will be held on:

  • Tuesday, August 11, from 2-3 pm
  • Wednesday, August 12, from 4-5 pm
  • Monday, August 17, from 5-6 pm
  • Thursday, August 20, from 2-3 pm

Closing Week

On Tuesday, IT Director Todd Coston (and his pet tiger) concluded our daily production:

On Wednesday, the Budget Committee received a President’s Leadership Award:

And the COVID-19 Response Team also received a President’s Leadership Award:

Also on Wednesday, Academic Senate President Steven Holmes honored our faculty retirees:

And this is the last of our stretch break photo rolls, looking back at the 2019-2020 academic year:

You can see all the videos from Closing Week 2020 at https://www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/president/events/closing-week-2020.

We are coming up quickly on Opening Week 2020, which will also be virtual. Opening Week 2020 will be Monday through Thursday, August 17-August 20.

Spotted on Social Media

BCSGA’s Facebook page sent out a congratulations to our CDC Graduates:

“Congrats to our youngest BC grads of the Child Development Center who will move on to kindergarten next year! 27 families participated in the curbside graduation.

We can’t wait to see you back in 2033!”

Performing Arts Department Chair Jennifer Garrett shared on Facebook that her family got a new puppy:

“Today was the greatest adventure! We have a puppy! We arrived at the house and played with the puppies for a little while. They immediately fell in love with her. Each of them carried her around and watched as she wrestled with her brother. When we told them she was our puppy they did not believe us. … Meet the newest member of Team Garrett: Remi!”

Lesley Bonds, Director of Student Success & Equity, also shared a photo of her dogs this week:

Shannon Musser, who has returned to BC to work with the Marketing and Student Success & Equity departments, was able to take a break last week and go houseboating on Lake McClure with her family:

I loved this quote that Bill Moseley shared on Twitter:

I also wanted to share this photo of Norma Rojas, Director of Communications and Community Relations, reminding everyone to #WearAMask while supporting BC! #WeAreBC!

Athletics

Men’s Basketball Program Coaching Change

Last week Coach Rich Hughes stepped down temporarily from leading the men’s basketball program for one year. As the winningest coach in program history, Coach Hughes has lead the men’s basketball program for the last 15 seasons and successfully guided many student athletes to the next level. Long-time assistant coach Aaron Chavez was hired in his place to be the interim head of basketball operations. We are excited for Aaron to lead the program and know he will bring about much success.

To read the release on Coach Hughes stepping down click here: http://gogades.com/sports/mbkb/2019-20/releases/20200730rznau4

To read the release on Coach Chavez being named the head of basketball operations click here: http://gogades.com/sports/mbkb/2019-20/releases/20200805izsxgf

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That’s all for now.
Until next time.
With much Renegade Pride and Collegiality.
sonya –
the luckiest and happiest college president ever

Wrapping up July – a fun week

Uncategorized August 1, 2020 1 Comment

The last week in July is always a very special week for me…. the last hurrah before administrators start tuning back in to get ready to welcome our students back to another academic year. Spent the last week on the coast enjoying cooler temperatures and some quiet time. Here are a few photos for you.

Neo in the car heading to the coast. July 27, 2020
July 29, 2020

Good morning Bakersfield
It is Saturday, August 1, 2020…A great day to be a Renegade

Residential universities and COVID-19

On Tuesday, PBS Newshour correspondent Hari Sreenivasan took a deep look at how residential universities are managing the stay-at-home orders that are keeping thousands of students away from their campuses. According to the report, many students are struggling without a supportive community of peers, with a lack of a quiet study area, and with new family responsibilities at home as a result of others sheltering in place along with them. Sreenivasan also talks to Michelle Asha Cooper of the Institute for Higher Education Policy, who points out how the traditional residential experience is not accessible for many low-income and community college students who don’t get the kind of networking opportunities afforded to those within the residential system.

Honoring John Lewis

BC partnered with Danny Morrison to present a program on John Lewis, the late civil rights leader and US Congressman, and his legacy of “good trouble”. Steve Watkin gave the opening remarks for our hour-long celebration of John Lewis that live-streamed on social media on Wednesday via Danny Morison‘s facebook live. Danny gave a moving retrospective of how John Lewis influenced his own social justice work. Julian West read John Lewis’ speech from the March on Washington in 1963, and Traco Matthews read Lewis’ 2015 speech from the 50th anniversary of Bloody Sunday at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama. 

Several BC faculty and staff, including including Oliver Rosales, Keith Wolaridge, Allen Bolar and Paula Parks, gave historical context to John Lewis’ life. BC students Zariyah Hall, Sha’ron Bradley and Blake Burton also spoke about how John Lewis paved the way for other young activists to follow in his footsteps.

I’d like to thank all of the community leaders who contributed to the John Lewis presentation, including Michael Bowers and Cindy Pollard.

I’d also like to thank both of the amazing musical performers who bookended our presentation – Nina Grae, who performed “We Shall Overcome”, and former BC student Jaimi Banks, who closed out the presentation with “Lift Every Voice and Sing”.

Finally, I’d like to thank the entire Marketing and Public Relations team at BC, who put together an hour-long video in just two days.

You can view the full video on the Danny Morrison Media Facebook page.

Juneteenth

Last week, I finished sharing the videos from our first day of #LightACandle Juneteenth programming. Today, I’m continuing with videos from June 17.

English Professor Paula Parks opened our program with this moving retelling of her family’s history:

Music Professor John Gerhold then performed his rendition of “Stand By Me”:

Please visit the Bakersfield College Juneteenth website for an archive of all the videos and programming, as well as testimonials and other resources as we continue this important work.

Nick Strobel featured on podcast

Nick Strobel, was featured this week on the Experiences You Should Have podcast.

He spoke about the Perseids Meteor Shower that runs from approx. mid-July through mid-August. This year, the meteor shower will peak on August 11 and 12. To view the shower, find a spot with a dark sky, where you can see the little dipper.

Hopefully we can all get a chance to unwind and spend some time enjoying the beauty of the night sky in the next few weeks.

Umoja Community orientation

Due to the number of applications, Umoja Community African-American Success Through Excellence and Persistence (ASTEP) held a pop-up unscheduled information session on Wednesday.

Paula Parks

Umoja Coordinator Dr. Paula L. Parks discussed the philosophy of and benefits of the program, which is designed for motivated African-American students. Students are part of a supportive network that includes faculty, staff, and mentors. That encouragement will be even more important in a fully virtual environment.

Students who joined were excited about the prospect of being involved. “It’s a good program for me, especially since I’m just starting at BC,” said Donavan.

Available Umoja courses with African-American culture woven throughout include English 1a/Library taught by Dr. Parks and Faith Bradham, Small Group Communication taught by Mychael Phillips, and Statistics taught by Michael Little.

Students will also have the opportunity to participate in special activities that celebrate their culture and give them tools to persist.

“I like how it has a lot of support, and I like the unity,” said Ebony.

Next scheduled information session is Aug. 5 at 11 a.m. Students who apply at https://www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/student/aai/umoja will receive the Zoom link to participate in the info session where they learn about Umoja and enroll in classes.

Former BC Choir Director honored

Selfie Sonya Christian and Joe Huszti Dec 4, 2015

Joe Huszti, former BC Choir Director, was just awarded the Howard Swan Award for Lifetime Achievement by the California Choral Directors’ Association. 

Big honor in the choral directing field!!

Please enjoy this video that Joe’s wife, Melinda, shared from the virtual ceremony:

More information on Joe can be found in the Archives Newsletter of Spring 2015, which tells of when the BC Choir under his direction won the choral music award at the Eisteddfod Music Festival in Wales in 1965.

I previously wrote about the BC Choir from 1965 reuniting 50 years after their historic victory. I invite you to take a look – there are some wonderful photos that choir members shared from their trip to Europe.

Congratulations on a well-deserved honor, Joe!

Thank you to Jerry Ludeke for tracking down this story from Joe and the BC Choir in our Bakersfield College Archive Newsletter.

Jerry Ludeke

BC, Wonderful Company partner for summer camp

This July, 72 middle school students from Delano, Wasco and Lost Hills were given the opportunity to join a two-week summer camp hosted in a partnership between Bakersfield College and The Wonderful Company. This was the first time this camp was held virtually, and focused on careers in agriculture.

During the first week the students participated in a class called Product Development, Marketing and Leadership taught by Bakersfield College faculty members Heather Baltis and James Selgrath. In this class, students created a new product along with all the branding needed to bring this product to market, including logos, slogans and a sales strategy focused on their product. Students learned the leadership qualities needed to successfully market a new product.

The second week students joined a class entitled Engineering and Careers in Agriculture taught by Bakersfield College faculty Travis Steele and counselor Jesus Oropeza.

During this week students learned about the field of engineering and robotics. These students constructed a robotic arm, given as a kit of basic parts that they were required to fully assemble, involving everything from placing gears in the gear box to wiring a motor to a computer chip.

After completing their robots, students created their own robotic challenges. These ranged from sorting fruit loops by color to balancing markers on end. The culminating project saw students compete head-to-head in a race to place paper balls into an empty water bottle.

All of these students will have the opportunity to enroll in Early College pathways in their 9th grade year at Wasco High School or Wonderful College Prep Academy.

Big thank you to the Rural Initiatives team who coordinated this camp, including Alma Feathers, Raquel Lopez, and Carolina Madrigal. And a big thank you as well as our innovative and amazing faculty Travis Steele, James Selgrath, Heather Baltis, and Jesse Oropeza.

Camp leads and mentors

Measure J Update

Even as we continue to shelter in place leading up to the start of the Fall 2020 semester, our construction projects funded by Kern County taxpayers via Measure J get closer and closer to completion. While the Campus Center is currently under construction, we are entering the final stages of designs for the Campus Center Annex, which will house administrative services.

Last week, we started construction on new signage around the campus and held a kick-off meeting for the design of the new parking and sports fields. Other projects in the design or planning phase include the combined gym fields house, the Welcome Center, the Agriculture Building, and the Delano Learning Resource Center.

New courses support online learning

This fall, Bakersfield College will be offering new courses that will support online learning – both for students and for teachers. EDUC B30: Introduction to Online Learning Environments and EDUC B31: Cultivating an Online Learning Community are new courses aimed at current and future teachers. EDUC B55: Bridge to Online Learning for Students is intended for students new to distance learning or who otherwise want gain skills for success in a online learning environment.

You can find out more about these offerings at https://www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/news/2020/0728-now-offering-courses-to-support-online-learning-for-current/future-teachers-and. You can also check out the KGET piece about these classes.

I’m so proud of our BC faculty for quickly finding ways to provide these needed courses as online learning becomes more essential during this time of COVID-19.

Commencement

Bakersfield Mayor Karen Goh shared a message for our graduates:

Congressman Kevin McCarthy also offered his congratulations:

And please enjoy Part 3 of our graduate recognition:

All the videos from our 106th Commencement Televised Event are available on our 2020 Commencement Ceremony website.

Closing Week

Before we began on Tuesday, we were treated to a photo presentation looking back at the past year at Bakersfield College:

And these photos during our Tuesday stretch break:

Also on Tuesday, I presented the Nursing Department with a Presidential Leadership Award for their hard work in getting our students prepared to fight on the front lines against COVID-19.

And on Wednesday, Todd Coston provided our closing remarks:

All the videos from our closing week celebration can be found on the Closing Week web page.

Early College Celebration

Today, I’m sharing the final two graduate recognition videos from our Early College Celebration.

The second part of our graduates from Wonderful Company Prep Academy:

And the second part from Wasco High School:

Find out more about our Early College Program at https://www.bakersfieldcollege.edu/earlycollege.

Corny & Sandi Retirement

During the Virtual Retirement Celebration for Corny Rodriguez and Sandi Taylor, we shared the videos from when they received President’s Lifetime Achievement Awards during our Closing Week celebration.

Corny Rodriguez:

Sandi Taylor:

Outgoing BCSGA President Samantha Pulido also shared this video announcing a new scholarship in their honor – the BCSGA Taylor Rodriguez Student Leadership for Equity Scholarship.

And finally, the Executive Office shared a farewell message:

Thank you again for your years of service, Corny and Sandi, and best of luck in all your future endeavors.

Spotted on Social Media

Great video by Dr. Jen Garrett about our Applied Music Program. Check it out.

Found this great visual representation on how distance and masks can keep us safe during from COVID-19. Lori Carter shared this on her Facebook page:

I love seeing the virtual transfer celebration continuing on the BC Twitter:

Mayra Diaz
Sociology and Spanish Major
CSU Bakersfield
Zach Hartsfield
Business
Eastern Michigan University

The BCSGA Instagram shared this archive photo from the 1980s. You can see the front of the original CSS building and Fireside building as students walk around campus.

BC Nursing shared this photo of the 105th RN Graduating class from this spring:

BC Librarian Mindy Wilmot is preparing for this fall’s courses:

Athletics

#NationalSoccerDay 2020

This last Tuesday – July 28, 2020 – was #NationalSoccerDay. While observing this social media holiday this year, we are proud of our men’s and women’s Renegade soccer teams and also very eager for them to return to action. This coming fall season of athletic competition has been postponed to the spring semester due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We look forward to the time when we’ll be able to cheer on our Renegades once more!

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That’s all for now.
Until next time.
With much Renegade Pride and Collegiality.
sonya –
the luckiest and happiest college president ever

Sonya Christian's Blog