News and Historical Stories

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Dr. Jim Young sitting in front of an artistic portrait of himself from when he worked at KCCD
11/3/25

Event Spotlight: Dr Young Library Dedication

Dr. James C. Young leaves an enduring legacy at Bakersfield College and throughout the Kern Community College District. His visionary leadership shaped the district for over two decades, serving 21 years as Chancellor. During his...
female standing on a stage talking to a group of attendees
10/29/25

Event Spotlight: 2025 Retirement Reception

The Bakersfield College Archives were proud to celebrate our incredible Retirees who have dedicated their years of service to BC. The celebration, held in the Campus Event Center, honored the lasting impact these individuals have...
Archives team standing at table with artifacts
10/22/25

Event Spotlight: RAC Ribbon Cutting

Bakersfield College proudly unveiled its new Renegade Athletic Complex to students, staff, and the public—a state-of-the-art facility that now serves as the home for a variety of sports.
Archives team at booth
10/17/25

Event Spotlight: Homecoming BBQ

At the 2025 Homecoming BBQ, the Bakersfield College Archives proudly presented a display celebrating the traditions and spirited legacy of BC’s athletic and student life.
Archives booth table at jazz day event
10/16/25

Event Spotlight: Jazz Day

BC’s annual Jazz Day, hosted by the Bakersfield College Jazz Studies Program, invited the Archives Department.
folklorico dancers performing on CSS Lawn at BC
10/1/25

Event Spotlight: Hispanic Heritage Month

The Bakersfield College Archives were honored to participate in the campus celebration of Hispanic Heritage Day, held on the lawn in front of the library. The Archives proudly showcased the rich history of the Chicano Studies Program, highlighting...
Nine staff members pose in the library.
9/29/25

BC Archives Staff

Spotlight on our Bakersfield College Archives staff.
Weill Institute photo from the 1950's
9/22/25

History Highlight: Weill Institute

Memoirs of the Bakersfield College Downtown Center By Dr. Chuck Carlson The Bakersfield College Downtown Center (DTC) came into being when Fedway Department store closed at 21st and Chester Avenue in Downtown Bakersfield. The Kern Community College...
1965 BC choir performing on a stage
9/17/25

History Highlight: The 1965 Bakersfield College Choir

The Accomplishments of the 1965 Bakersfield College Choir In 1965, the Bakersfield College Choir made history. Under the direction of Joseph Huszti, the choir traveled across Europe on a 45-day tour that included performances in nine countries....
BC Renegade marching band drumhead from the past
9/12/25

Acquisition Highlight: Marching Arts Collection

The Marching Arts department has graciously donated an impressive collection of artifacts, highlighting the BC Renegade Band, Golden Empire Drum & Bugle Corps and BC Drumline. The collection contains pieces such as original uniforms, banners,...
Jess Nieto and AI Noriega filming and researching in Mexico
9/9/25

History Highlight: Dr. Nieto's Impact on Chicano Culture at BC

Dr. Jess Nieto built BC's Chicano Studies curriculum into a nationally prominent program, founded the Chicano Cultural Center, and became a community leader.
Dr. Norman Levin sitting at a desk with pens and a microscope
6/30/25

History Highlight: Dr. Norman Levan

Monday, June 30, 2025 By Deanna Rea There is an old saying that goes – a new record is only as good as the one it breaks. But Dr. Norman Levan would beg to differ. His generous multi-million-dollar contributions to Bakersfield College broke records,...