Bakersfield College Hosting Vet Fest 2024

By Deanna Rea

Bakersfield College is honored to host the annual Vet Fest, which provides the opportunity for students and community members to come together and celebrate veterans of all eras. This year’s event promises to be a vibrant celebration, fostering community spirit while offering campus and community resources, delicious food, exciting games, music, and more. Everyone is invited to attend on Wednesday, November 13, 9:00AM to 1:00PM at the Renegade Crossroads.

With November 11th being Veterans Day, this festival provides the perfect opportunity for both the campus and the wider Bakersfield community to honor the contributions of our veterans and reflect on the sacrifices they have made to protect the freedoms we cherish today. The event will feature several fun-filled activities including a scavenger hunt, lively music, delicious food offerings, prizes, and more.

Jenny Frank is the Director of Veteran Services and Programs and coordinator of Vet Fest. “Because we know that the transition from military service to the educational environment can be challenging,” says Frank, “we hope to show that not only does the staff of the Veteran Resource Center support them and are ready to assist in helping them through their educational journeys, but that they have the support of the executive team, administration, staff, and faculty here at Bakersfield College.”

An inspiring coalition of community organizations and local businesses have come together to provide valuable resources for veteran students. These resources range from veteran-specific services, such as the California Veterans Assistance Foundation (which serves veterans who are housing unstable), to the Kern County Veterans Service Office (which assists with VA claims and benefits), as well as a host of community organizations, including the Department of Rehabilitation, Kern Behavioral Health & Recovery Services, CAPK, the Bakersfield Police Department, and the Social Security Administration, and several others.

The Bakersfield College Veteran Services and Program is committed to supporting the academic and personal success of all veteran students. The Vernon Valenzuela Resource Center is home to a dedicated team of Veteran Services staff who are committed to empowering veteran students, ensuring that they feel valued, understood, and equipped to thrive in their educational pursuits.

“We understand that the post-military transition to student life can be challenging yet rewarding, [and] we are grateful to our veterans for their service to our country and dedicated to providing the services needed to navigate this transition,” says Jenny Frank. “We know that with the right environment and intentional services emphasizing academics, camaraderie, and wellness, all veterans can successfully complete their educational goals at BC.”