Wednesday, June 3, 2026
Bakersfield College was excited to host a campus Luau to celebrate Asian America,
Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. The exciting event
featured a variety of Hawaiian-inspired food and drinks, guest speakers, music, Polynesian
performers, and more.
BC President, Dr. Stacey Pfluger helped welcome attendees and emphasized the importance
of celebrating AANHPI month. “This month, we honor the resilience, the culture, the
joy and the belonging that the AANHPI community brings to our campus every single
day,” she said, “I want to thank you all for letting BC be a part of your story, and
for choosing BC to be a part of yours.”
As the proceedings continued, Fidel Calbuena, Director of Food Services at BC, was
welcomed to the podium. He took time to discuss the food items that were available
to attendees – their inspiration and connection to history and culture. This included,
roast pig, poi, fried rice with spam and pineapple, roast chicken, shredded pork,
and much more – including a wide variety of specialty beverages and desserts.
One of the featured speakers for the event was Quon Louey, Vice President of the Kern
County Asian Chamber of Commerce. He expressed excitement and gratitude for the day’s
events. “Tonight, we celebrate more than just a culture. It is a celebration of resilience,
family, history, entrepreneurship, education, and community,” he said, “It is a reminder
that the AANHPI story is deeply woven in the story of California and Kern County.”
He also talked about the impact AANHPI individuals had on the history of Kern County,
from building railroads and irrigation systems to agricultural and business development.
“Today, the next generation is sitting right here in this room,” Mr. Louey said, “students
at Bakersfield College represent the future of leadership in Kern County.”
The event concluded with a Polynesian dance demonstration and a fire dancer, both
showcasing the excitement and style of pacific islander entertainment.
Even though it was a rainy afternoon, more than a hundred students, staff, and community
members gathered in the Breezeway of the Campus Center building to enjoy food, fellowship,
and fun. Thank you to everyone who made this event possible, especially to those who
helped prepare and serve the delicious food for the event.
