It’s a belief Cheryl Scott lives by — and proves every single day through her work as Executive Director of the BC Foundation. With a warm heart, a deep sense of purpose, and an eye for transformative potential, Cheryl is helping shape the futures of students across Kern County — one opportunity, one scholarship, and one student at a time. 

 

This year, the Bakersfield College Foundation celebrates a major milestone: 50 years of changing lives. What started as a vision by then-college president John Collins has grown into a powerhouse of philanthropy and innovation. 

 

“John Collins was truly ahead of his time,” Cheryl explains. “He believed in the potential of a foundation to open doors for students who otherwise wouldn’t have the financial means to pursue higher education.” He rallied the community to support that mission — and it worked. 

In just the past 25 years, the BC Foundation has awarded more than $13 million in scholarships and helped launch countless student-driven programs. But it doesn’t stop there. Today, the Foundation plays an essential role in funding pilot programs, startup initiatives, and industry-relevant coursework that might not otherwise receive state funding. 

 

Their goal is to be a springboard for innovation on campus. Cheryl explains, “Whether that’s helping Bakersfield College students prepare to enter the workforce or move on to four-year universities, we’re here to support their success.” 

 

For Cheryl, the work is not only professional — it’s deeply personal. Two years ago, Cheryl lost her husband, Darren, a respected local electrical contractor. In the wake of his passing, family and friends came together to create a scholarship in his honor to benefit students pursuing careers in the trades — particularly construction, carpentry, and electrical work. 

 

“We wanted to honor Darren’s legacy in a meaningful way,” Cheryl shares. “He believed in hard work and giving people the tools to succeed. What better way to do that than by investing in the next generation of tradespeople?” 

 

The Scott Family Scholarship is an endowed scholarship, meaning it will support students in perpetuity. The principal remains untouched while the interest funds annual awards. “It’s powerful to know this scholarship will continue long after we’re gone,” Cheryl reflects. 

This past year, Cheryl and her son, Zack, attended a campus event where they met this year’s scholarship recipient, Carlos. 

 

“I was surprised by how emotional I felt,” Cheryl recalls. “Carlos was incredibly sincere, and my son and I both felt a real connection. We left that evening feeling proud, hopeful, and committed to staying in touch with him throughout his journey.” 

 

Cheryl believes philanthropy is most powerful when it’s a collective effort. From small individual donations to monthly payroll deductions by college staff, every contribution counts. 

 

“One of our carpentry instructors donates from every paycheck to this scholarship,” she says with pride. “That’s what this is all about — coming together to make a difference. When you see others stepping up, it reaffirms the importance of what we’re doing.”  

 

Cheryl’s passion for philanthropy has grown even stronger since taking on her role. “I used to work in fundraising, but when I saw the tangible impact this scholarship had — and met Carlos — I realized I had truly become a philanthropist at heart, not just in title.” 

 

With a new, visionary college president, Dr. Jerry Fliger, leading the charge, Cheryl feels a renewed sense of energy and excitement. 

 

“There’s something big on the horizon for Bakersfield College and the Foundation,” she says. “This is a thrilling time to be a part of something so meaningful.” 

 

And as the college prepares to graduate its 50,000th student this year, Cheryl can’t help but reflect on the incredible role Bakersfield College plays in the lives of so many. 

 

“I’ve heard so many stories — students who left for private universities straight out of high school, only to return to BC and thrive here,” comments Cheryl. Bakersfield College isn’t just a stepping stone; for many, it’s a launching pad. 

 

Through her tireless efforts, Cheryl Scott is ensuring that the launch continues — for students today and for generations to come. 

 

Because when one life gives, many lives soar.