BC's new president hired for 'depth and breadth' of experience
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BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — Bakersfield College introduced a familiar face Monday as its 10th president.
Dr. Sonya Christian – who was a math faculty member, division chair and dean of science, engineering, allied health and mathematics at Bakersfield College from 1991 to 2003 – will take over part-time Nov. 29 and full-time in January.
Christian was most recently the vice president and chief academic officer at Lane Community College in Eugene, Ore.
"The depth and breadth of her experience in California and Oregon make Dr. Christian the right person to promote education and to develop strong relationships with educational partners and the community at large," Kern Community College District Chancellor Sandra Serrano said in a news release.
Christian has held increasingly higher-level administrative roles at Lane Community College over the last decade, according to BC. She's also worked in the classrooms at American River College in Sacramento and El Camino Citrus College in Glendora.
BC's new president holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Kerala in Kerala, India, a master's degree from the University of Southern California, and a doctorate from the University of California, Los Angeles.
Christian will replace Dr. Greg Chamberlain as president after he resigned to return to the classroom, teaching computer studies.
Presidents normally sits around and tell  the facility what to do based upon what other people tell the president what he or she ought to do. That is, when they are not reading stupid management books!
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Yes, Bakersfield College needs a president who involves and listens to the faculty, the staff, the students, and the management; a president who establishes clear, fair, and equitable lines of reporting and communication;Â someeone who is able to establish a healthy, balanced financial footing. BC has been without a prez for 6-months.
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Between Susan Serrano and Dr Christian, their salaries are  $500,000. I have no problem with huge compensation packages to PRIVATE SCHOOLS and the business world. But PUBLIC SCHOOLS?
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If everyone could just accept enough for our work, our world would be a safer more peaceful place to live. We would not be worrying if our taxes will increase. Either higher taxes or face more cuts in our educational system if Governor Brownâs tax initiative doesnât pass in a few weeks.
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If  there is going to be more cuts in education, let it begin at the very top. Take one zero off Serranoâs and Christianâs salaries and use that as grants to underprivileged students!
@life's a charge BC is not a public school. It is a college. You have to pay to go. Public schools funded by the govt stop at grade 12