BC’s NaTesha Johnson Honored at Kern Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (KHCC) Event
Thursday, February 19, 2026
NaTesha Johnson, Executive Director of Entrepreneurship and Workforce Development, was honored with the Community Impact Award at the Kern Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 2026 Installation and Business Awards Gala. The event was held earlier this month at the Dignity Health Arena in downtown Bakersfield. She was recognized for her contributions to the community through business partnerships, consulting, and grant programs.
NaTesha joined Bakersfield College in 2019 as a consultant for the Launchpad initiative, a program designed to provide resources and educational workshops that help entrepreneurs start and grow local businesses. She later stepped into the role of Program Director for Launchpad and, in 2025, became Executive Director of Entrepreneurship and Workforce Development.
NaTesha shared that she was both honored and humbled to receive the award. “I believe it’s a culmination of the support I receive from the business community, the Hispanic community, and the Black community,” she said. “They appreciate your efforts and want to acknowledge that. Everything we do here with Launchpad - and beyond - is interconnected. Providing services to our small businesses and serving the community go hand in hand.”
She also emphasized the team effort behind the work. “The work we are doing is ‘together-work.’ It is the work of a village,” she said. “It takes the support of Bakersfield College and Kern Community College District for me to do what I do.”
Receiving recognition from the Hispanic community made the moment especially meaningful. “This is a special award for me because you are being recognized by a different community,” she shared. “I do a lot of work in the African American community, but when the Hispanic community says, ‘We see your work and we appreciate the partnership,’ that means the world to me.”
Congratulations to NaTesha Johnson on receiving the Community Impact Award. We appreciate her dedication to strengthening local small businesses and expanding opportunities for students and community members alike.
