Our Commitment to Women

Bakersfield College is committed to empowering women through inspirational support and education. In alignment with the College's institutional mission, vision, and core values, we champion for the next generation of female leaders throughout Kern County and our world.

Deeply rooted in the history of Bakersfield College, a woman named Grace Van Dyke Bird first came to teach in 1917 and was appointed as College Chief Executive, the position now known as President, in 1921. She was among the first to suggest using the term "community college" instead of junior college, arguing that community was more descriptive of the institution's role.

A woman of vision, she encouraged instruction in job skills as well as quality education for students transferring to four-year colleges which remains a primary goal and focus of the College. As the first woman to lead a public community college in California, Bird was popular and widely respected as an educator and administrator.

Today, under the leadership of Dr. Sonya Christian, Bakersfield College continues to support women's leadership development throughout the College and the community. Panels, workshops and advocacy ensure student success and provide a platform for community engagement and mentorship. This contributes to a healthier, stronger, and more diverse future for women seeking pivotal leadership roles.

Jean Fuller - California Senator Republican Leader Emeritus

Fuller served in public office from 2006-2018. She holds a doctorate degree from UC Santa Barbara, a Master's degree from CSU Los Angeles, a Bachelor's Degree from California State University, Fresno, and an Associate's Degree from Bakersfield College.

Martha Flores - Porterville Mayor

Mrs. Martha Flores is the Mayor of Porterville. Prior to serving as Mayor, Ms. Flores worked as an Administrative Assistant to the Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, she retired from this position in 2010. Ms. Flores also has an entrepreneurship background, she established Frugal Fashions, which operated from 1992 to 2011. Frugal Fashions helped community members with the skill of shopping for professional wear at thrift stores. Further, this program helped participants attain gear and materials for professional development on a limited income.

Wendy Avila - Kern Superior Court Judge

Judge Wendy Avila was appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom, making her the first Latina, to serve on the Kern Superior Court. Judge Avila has over 20 years in the field and has served as a Deputy District Attorney at the Kern County District Attorney’s Office for 18 years and has been the Senior Assistant Inspector General at the Office of the Inspector General since 2017. She attended the University of California, Santa Barbara for her undergraduate studies and then the University of San Francisco School of Law. In a news article, Judge Avila shared that her upbringing inspired her professional aspirations. She shared that she was adopted at just three months, experienced the loss of her brother, who was murdered at age 23, and lost both of her adoptive parents at a young age.

Brenda Lewis - CA Board of Education Member and former Kern High School District Superintendent

Dr. Brenda Lewis was appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom to the California Board of Education earlier this year. Dr. Lewis formerly served as the Associate Superintendent of Instruction at the Kern High School District for seven years. She has a Master of Science degree in Physical Education from Oklahoma State University and a Doctor of Education degree in Organizational Leadership from the University of La Verne. Dr. Lewis has been a pillar in the community and has received several accolades, including 17 News’ Remarkable Women, and was named the Grand Marshall at the 2022 Black American History Parade this year.