Friday, February 27, 2026
This week, Bakersfield College hosted a Black History Month Celebration Brunch to
recognize and honor BC’s African American Alumni. The event featured guest speakers,
alumni awards, music, spoken word, brunch, and more.
The brunch took place at the Renegade Event Center on the Panorama Campus. The emcee
was NaTesha Johnson, Executive Director, Entrepreneurship and Workforce Development
at BC, and she started off the proceedings with a brief welcome and overview of the
day’s activities. After the audience sang the Black National Anthem, BC President
Dr. Stacey Pfluger welcomed guests and attendees. “It is the actions that we take
here and now, in this present moment, that build us forward to whatever our future
is going to be” she said, “That is the power events like. So, thank you for taking
time out of your day to be here to celebrate with us.” Attendees were then invited
to enjoy a delicious brunch, which included scrambled eggs, fried catfish, fried chicken,
mac ‘n cheese, peach cobbler and more.
At the conclusion of brunch, Ebony King presented a beautiful spoken word tribute
to Black History Month, a truly inspirational and encouraging presentation. Later
in the program, BCSGA President Khalfani Mackey addressed the audience, sharing an
encouraging word while expressing hope for the future of BC and higher education.
“Bakersfield College is a black serving institution. The opportunity is real, but so is the responsibility,”
he said, “because some of the barriers facing African American initiatives didn’t
start today – and they won’t disappear on their own. I am hopeful because, right now,
there is a resilient effort taking shape, where people are listening with intention
and refusing to accept that ‘this is how it’s always been’.”
The event also provided time for African American alum’s to be recognized for their
service and dedication to BC and the community. One recognition was Lenora Daniels,
an alum from the 1960’s, who received the Legacy Award. After attending Bakersfield
College, she worked in the Child Development Center on the Panorama Campus for more
than 30 years. Her passion and dedication to the children who were under her care
allowed student parents to continue their education and inspired a whole generation
of future Renegades.
Later in the event, Dr. Tandy Ward, an Alum from the 1980’s, delighted the audience
with a singing of the classic hymn “His Eye is on the Sparrow”. The event closed with
a recognition of all African American alumni at the event. More than 70 alums, from
as far back as the 1950’s, were in attendance and they all received a special gift
from the event organizers.
The Black History Month Celebration Brunch at Bakersfield College was more than a
gathering – it was a powerful tribute to legacy, resilience, and community. From heartfelt
speeches, inspirational performances to the recognition of distinguished alumni –
the event beautifully reflected the lasting impact of African American leaders who
attended Bakersfield College. Thank you to all community members who were able to
join us for this incredible celebration, and a big thank you to everyone who helped
make this event happen.
