BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — Dr. Stacy Pfluger has been selected as the next president of Bakersfield College, elevating the longtime higher education leader from her role as interim president, the Kern Community College District announced.
Pfluger is described as a dedicated educator with a focus on student achievement, academic excellence, workforce development and community engagement, said the Kern Community College District. The district said that during her time as interim president, she demonstrated a collaborative, student-centered approach aligned with Bakersfield College’s mission of transforming lives through education.
“Dr. Pfluger’s leadership has consistently reflected a steady, thoughtful, and deep commitment to the students and communities we serve throughout her career in higher education,” stated Dr. Steven Bloomberg, chancellor of the Kern Community College District. “She brings a strong understanding of our college, our community, and the work ahead, and I am confident she will continue building meaningful relationships and moving Bakersfield College forward in positive ways.”
Nan Gomez-Heitzeberg, chair of the Kern Community College District Board of Trustees, said the board valued Pfluger’s leadership as interim president.
“The Board appreciates the leadership Dr. Pfluger has provided during her time as Interim President,” Gomez-Heitzeberg stated. “We believe her experience, collaborative leadership style, and focus on student success position Bakersfield College well for the future. In a relatively short time, she has built strong relationships throughout the community and established meaningful partnerships that will continue benefiting the college and our students.”
Before serving as interim president, Pfluger was vice chancellor of educational services and student success for the Kern Community College District. Before joining the district, she served as provost at Southeast Arkansas College, where she led initiatives focused on student retention, academic assessment and institutional effectiveness. Earlier in her career, she spent 14 years at Angelina College in Texas in a variety of academic leadership roles, supporting faculty collaboration.
The district said Pfluger has championed efforts to expand educational opportunity, strengthen student support, and improve student outcomes, and is recognized as an authentic leader with a collaborative and transparent style emphasizing engagement with students, employees and the community.
Pfluger also serves on the boards of the Kern Economic Development Corporation and the American Heart Association, and volunteers with the Higher Learning Commission and the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, according to the district.
“I am honored to serve as President of Bakersfield College,” Pfluger stated. “BC has a proud tradition of changing lives through education, and I look forward to continuing our work together in support of our students and community. Our mission remains rooted in expanding opportunity, supporting student success, and preparing students for the future.”