Bakersfield College Prepares for 110th Commencement Ceremony

04/29/24
BC 2023 graduation ceremony participants with diploma covers

Monday, April 29, 2024

Bakersfield College Prepares for 110th Commencement Ceremony
Monika Roberts, Director of Marketing, Bakersfield College
Published in the May issue of Bakersfield Life Magazine


Bakersfield College is gearing up for its 110th commencement ceremony, set to take place at 7pm on May 10, 2024, at Memorial Stadium on BC's Panorama campus. The event promises to be a memorable occasion as over 3200 graduates are eligible to walk the stage, marking a significant milestone and accomplishment for our community.

Among the graduates are students from BC’s Early College program, who will be earning their associate's degree while still enrolled in high school. Additionally, 17 from the Class of 2024 will earn a Baccalaureate of Science in Industrial Automation, representing the 7th graduating cohort from BC's 4-year degree program. Also among them are over 800 transferring students headed to CSUB this upcoming Fall. These achievements underscore the college's commitment to providing efficient and diverse educational pathways in high-demand career fields and successful transfer pathways.

This year's commencement holds special significance as it marks not only 110 years of institutional excellence and Renegade graduates, but this year is also the first under the leadership of Dr. Jerry E. Fliger, BC’s newly appointed president. Dr. Fliger brings with him a wealth of experience and a fervent dedication to academic excellence and student success. His arrival signals a promising new chapter for the college, characterized by growth, innovation, and community engagement.

The evening ceremony will culminate with a spectacular display of fireworks, a cherished annual tradition among the BC community. This celebratory finale serves as a resounding tribute to the countless hours of hard work, perseverance, and dedication exhibited by the graduating class, a testament to their unwavering commitment to success and perseverance.

In addition to the main program, the Bakersfield College campus community eagerly anticipates celebrating the accomplishments of the Class of 2024 on May 10, 2024 with the following schedule of Affinity Group pre-commencement events:

  • African American at 4:00 pm (Indoor Theater)
  • Chicano/Latino at 3:00 pm (Outdoor Theater)
  • Delano at 11:00 am (Delano Campus)
  • Baccalaureate Graduates at 4:00 pm (Renegade Event Center)
  • Lavender (LGBTQIA+) at 3:00 pm (Renegade Event Center)
  • Veterans at 4:00 pm (Veterans Resource Center)

Upcoming Renegades Graduate to Watch

As Bakersfield College prepares to celebrate its 110th commencement ceremony, two standout graduates are poised to make their mark on the world:

Amanda Anguiano is a second-generation student who has earned a 4.0 throughout her Bakersfield College career majoring in Political Science. In her first year at Bakersfield College, she held the position of Senator-At-Large for Bakersfield College’s Student Government, for her second year at BC she now holds the position of Vice President. Amanda joined student government to better students' educational endeavors throughout their Bakersfield College career and has created and passed multiple legislations to enhance students' basic needs, and resources. Amanda is on the path to graduating this semester and transferring the fall of 2024 to a UC with the goal of continuing her major in Political science. While she is not sure of what exact career path she wants to pursue a career regarding basic needs and human rights.

Johanna Alicia Guzman, a devoted wife, mother of three, and first-generation full-time student, embodies resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to her education and community. Despite graduating high school two decades ago, Johanna cherishes the opportunity to attend college and as a first-generation student, she's breaking barriers and building a legacy of knowledge for her children. Balancing motherhood with academic pursuits, Johanna actively engages in Bakersfield College’s student government, advocating for inclusivity, diversity, and positive change. Her journey epitomizes the transformative power of education and the endless possibilities for those who dare to dream.


Amanda standing in front of government building
Johanna wearing red polo shirt
Grad ceremony 2023 attendees sitting in stadium
2023 grad ceremony participant with diploma in hand