BC Hosts First Ever Kern-AUCC Health Scholars Pathway Pinning Ceremony
Wednesday, July 8, 2026
In October last year, Bakersfield College announced the launch of an exciting new initiative in collaboration with Atlanta University Center Consortium (AUCC), Morehouse School of Medicine, Kern High School District, KCSOS, and More in Common Alliance that creates a streamlined pathway for students from Kern County to pursue careers in medicine.
Recently, BC hosted the first ever pinning ceremony welcoming the first cohort for the Kern-AUCC Health Scholars Pathway. Eight scholars were welcomed into the program and received a ceremonial pin and certificate. Dr. Kevin Smith, Associate Dean for Academic Programs and Affiliations, welcomed each student to the program. “Tonight’s pinning ceremony marks the official beginning of each scholar’s journey through the Kern-AUCC Health Scholars Pathway,” he said, “The pin represents commitment, service, academic excellence, and a promise to use education to improve the health and well-being of our communities.”
The eight scholars that were admitted into the program were Cindy Duran, David Roman, Emely Faith Chavez, Samantha Guillen, Taya Martinez-Ruiz, Mason Moretti, Leonah Denweed, and Julianne Alba. During the event, the scholars were invited to the stage to be recognized by administrators, faculty and attendees while receiving their pins and certificates. Bakersfield Mayor Karen Goh also presented each scholar with Certificate of Recognition in honor of their participation in the program. The students also received a variety of items to commemorate their achievement including a laptop computer, backpack, t-shirt, and more.
The ceremony included remarks and encouraging words from Morehouse administrators, Bakersfield College administrators, Bakersfield Mayor Kern Goh, Arvin Mayor Olivia Calderon, Chief Administrative Officer of More in Common Alliance Dr. Veronica Mallett, and others. After the final remarks, the scholars and administrators posed for a group photo and enjoyed a time of fellowship with event attendees.
Congratulations to the eight scholars who are part of the first cohort of the Kern-AUCC Health Scholars Pathway. We wish you good luck as you start this incredible journey to a career in the medical field.
