Celebrating those who make Bakersfield beautiful
On Saturday, June 14, the 35th annual Beautiful Bakersfield Awards, presented by Valley Strong Credit Union, recognized the efforts of 99 individuals, businesses and organizations that helped build a better Bakersfield in 2024. The Greater Bakersfield Chamber is honored to share the inspiring stories of each nominee and award recipient.
A Better Bakersfield – Sponsored by Kaiser Permanente Kern County
An annual event or project that greatly improves the quality of life in Bakersfield.
Annual NOR Christmas Parade – The 51st Annual North of the River Christmas Parade illuminated Oildale and North Chester with over 50 entries and an upgraded judges’ stand, creating a festive and economic boost for local businesses. Hosted by the North of the River Recreation & Park District, this cherished, non-motorized community tradition unites families with free holiday joy. Its continued innovation and accessibility highlight a deep commitment to Bakersfield’s spirit and inclusivity.
The nominees in this category included:
- Art Heist
- CALM Holiday Lights
- City of Bakersfield Recreation & Parks Department
- Cycle Centennial Fun Ride
- Dreams and Hopes for the Children
- Taft College Foundation
Architecture & Design – Sponsored by Ordiz-Melby Architects, A Professional Corporation
The completion of an innovative new building or space, showcasing an outstanding interior or exterior design that harmonizes with its environment.
The Nest – Greenfield Middle School Gymnasium – Greenfield Union School District opened its first-ever gym, “The Nest,” offering a safe indoor space for sports, performances and school assemblies. The Nest has become a unifying force, bringing families together and enriching South Bakersfield’s sense of pride. With thoughtful design and community focus, it represents a new chapter for youth empowerment and public engagement in the area.
The nominees in this category included:
- Adventist Health Medical Office – Buena Vista
- City of Bakersfield – Public Works Department – The Centennial Corridor
- Do the Math Set – John Lenko
- Habitat for Humanity Golden Empire
- The Dwelling Place – Que Pasa
- The Green Room at the Fillbrandt
- The Skin Lab
Arts & Culture – Sponsored by County of Kern
Efforts to enrich and elevate arts and culture within the Bakersfield community.
Arts Council of Kern – In 2024, the Arts Council of Kern transformed public spaces through large-scale murals and empowered cultural expression with dynamic programs. The organization launched “Common Ground,” a powerful celebration of Native American art, while energizing Downtown with First Fridays and artist workshops. These efforts breathe life into Bakersfield’s streetscapes and promote equity, access and community pride through creativity.
The nominees in this category included:
- Art with Erick
- Ballet Folklorico Huatzecalli
- Brenda Ruiz
- Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall
- Rosalyn Stevens
Urban Core – Sponsored by B3K Prosperity
An individual, business, or coalition working to make downtown Bakersfield safer, more vibrant and economically thriving.
Jennifer Williams-Cordova – Jennifer Williams-Cordova transformed overlooked spaces across Downtown Bakersfield into vibrant canvases of storytelling and culture. Her murals reflect community identity, spark civic dialogue and reimagine public art as a tool for inclusion and emotional wellness. Through her vision, Bakersfield’s urban core is not only revitalized but reconnected.
The nominees in this category included:
- Bakersfield Police Department Impact Team
- Carrie Blind
- City of Bakersfield – Economic Development Department
- Jennifer Williams-Cordova
- The Eligon Venue and Social Collective
- Tlo Wines
Educational Excellence – Sponsored by California Resources Corporation
Educators, projects or institutions advancing educational opportunities and achievement across all levels in the community.
Youth 2 Leaders Educational Foundation – Youth 2 Leaders provided more than 3,000 students with essential financial aid guidance and awarded $30,000 in scholarships. Through UCSB summer camps and their flagship SOL/REACH program, they supported over 2,000 migrant families, fostering academic success and leadership skills. Their impact is reshaping access to higher education in underserved Kern communities.
The nominees in this category included:
- Children First
- CSUB College of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Engineering Grants and Outreach
- KCSOS STEAM Camps
- Kern County Department of Child Support Services and Kern County Sheriff’s Lerdo Detention Facilities
- Kern Medical
- Youth 2 Leaders Education Foundation
At the Beautiful Bakersfield Awards, Valerie Hashim and her husband Chuck celebrated their contributions to Bakersfield’s arts and culture scene. Valerie, the mother of Andrea Hansen and a founding member of the Kern Dance Alliance, was celebrated alongside her husband (Andrea’s father) on the anniversary of their first date. This special evening coincided with the 50th anniversary of their wedding. Their love story began at the Civic Auditorium (now the Mechanics Bank Theater and Arena) in 1968, where they saw Jimi Hendrix perform. The event was a beautiful tribute to their enduring love,and their family joined them to make it a truly memorable evening.
Health & Wellness – Sponsored by Heart Vascular and Leg Center
An individual, group or organization that went beyond their normal activities to promote healthy living through education, prevention or medical services.
Kern Medical – Addiction Medicine Recovery Program – Kern Medical’s Medication Assistance and Recovery Clinic (MARC) offers judgment-free addiction treatment and holistic support for patients across Kern County. Beyond care, their Addiction Medicine Fellowship prepares the next generation of doctors to combat substance use stigma. From hospital beds to community housing support, Kern Medical delivers healing with dignity and purpose.
The nominees in this category included:
- 2 Queens Fitness
- Adventist Health COPE Health Scholars Program
- Dr. Naga Bodapati
- Heavy Iron Training Facility
Humanitarian Individual – Sponsored by Dignity Health – Mercy & Memorial Hospitals
An individual whose personal volunteer efforts have significantly impacted the community.
Angela Barton – Angela Barton has dedicated over 27,000 volunteer hours and raised $10 million for causes ranging from cancer care to women’s empowerment. As CEO of Barton Marketing, she supports nonprofits in times of crisis, blending strategic communications with a heart for service. Her advocacy has left an indelible mark on families, organizations and the broader community.
The nominees in this category included:
- Elijah J. Gonzales
- Jason Chamberlain
- Perry Finzel
- Sue England
- Vicheka Ek
Humanitarian Group – Sponsored by Chevron
A group whose dedicated volunteer work has made a meaningful difference in the lives of Bakersfield residents
Flood Ministries – Flood Ministries housed 338 individuals in 2024 and achieved a 90% long-term housing retention rate, proving that housing-first models work. Their comprehensive support services, including income attainment and addiction recovery, offer second chances. Every furnished home marks a life transformed in Bakersfield.
The nominees in this category included:
- American Heart Association
- Bring Back the Kern
- Kern County Department of Child Support Services – Community Crusaders
- The Bakersfield Pageant
- Upside Academy, Inc.
Emerging Nonprofit – Sponsored by Kern Community Foundation
A nonprofit organization (1-10 years old) who made a significant impact on the community through its grassroots initiatives.
Transitional Youth Mobilizing for Change – This youth-led nonprofit elevated community voices through powerful media, producing “Equity Rise,” a documentary showcasing the culture and resilience of Southeast Bakersfield. Their “Voices for Kern” podcast gives young leaders a platform to speak on justice, identity and change. With storytelling at its core, they are shaping a more informed and empowered generation.
The nominees in this category included:
- Amelia Molloy’s Angels
- Gridstone Inc.
- Heart of the City Foundation
- Spotlight Academy of the Arts
- The Motherhood Project
Nonprofit of the Year – Sponsored by Kern Family Health Care
Honors a nonprofit organization for its significant and lasting impact on the community.
CASA of Kern County – CASA served 331 foster youth in 2024, providing each with a dedicated court-appointed special advocate to navigate complex legal and personal challenges. These volunteers help youth achieve better outcomes in education, mental health and permanency. Their work strengthens families and builds a safer, more stable Bakersfield for generations to come.
The nominees in this category included:
- Alzheimer’s Disease Association of Kern County
- Clinica Sierra Vista
- Houchin Community Blood Bank
- Kern County Law Enforcement Foundation
- Make-A-Wish Central Coast & Southern Central Valley
- Mission Community Services Corporation Kern Women’s Business Center
- Real Estate Professionals Family Relief Fund
- The Open Door Network
- Valley Center for the Blind
Small Business of the Year – Sponsored by Bank of America
A small business (25 employees or fewer) whose contributions, products, or services instill pride and benefit the community.
New Frontier Consulting – New Frontier Consulting supported local entrepreneurs with hands-on workshops, HR compliance training, and community mentorships. They helped dozens of small businesses grow sustainably while also giving back through nonprofit support and volunteer hours. Their people-first approach fosters a healthier business ecosystem across Kern County.
The nominees in this category included:
- Adaptive Networks
- Barton Marketing Group
- CJs Carpet Cleaning
- LEG Travel
- Pilates Barre
- South Valley AC & Heating
- The Nest and Company
- TM Signs and Graphics
- UpMarket
Large Business / Corporation of the Year – Sponsored by Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Tejon
A business recognized for its substantial impact through volunteer work, donations or community engagement.
Adventist Health – In 2024, Adventist Health hosted 50+ health fairs and expanded healthcare access through employer partnerships and mobile services. They led with heart, participating in VIPink, Relay for Life and countless grassroots efforts to promote wellness. Their commitment to community goes far beyond the hospital walls.
The nominees in this category included:
- Bank of America
- Tri Counties Bank
Next Gen – Sponsored by Kern County Superintendent of Schools
A young individual or group (grades K-12) with exceptional citizenship and community involvement.
Patrick Zubiran – Last year, at just 10 years of age, Patrick Zubiran organized five donation drives, distributing over 50,000 essential items to struggling families. Through Patrick’s Pantry project, he brought holiday joy to seniors and youth, collecting hundreds of toys and meals. His leadership proves that compassion and action have no age limit.
The nominees in this category included:
- Carter Beardsley
- Chloe Grace Porter
- Guneet Kaur
Young Professional – Sponsored by Accelerated Urgent Care
An individual (ages 18-40) whose contributions have significantly enhanced the quality of life in Bakersfield.
Shellena Heber – Shellena Heber champions independence and opportunity for the visually impaired as Executive Director of Valley Center for the Blind. From daily living skills to career coaching, she empowers people of all ages to thrive. Her work dismantles barriers and reshapes what’s possible for individuals with disabilities.
The nominees in this category included:
- David Madding
- Gabriel Adame
- Gabriel Arellano
- Imad Jobah
- Lauren Skidmore
- Nik Boone
Business Person of the Year – Sponsored by Tri Counties Bank
A local business owner/manager whose efforts truly impact and enhance the quality of life in the community.
Ken Keller – Ken Keller raised six million dollars for Bakersfield Memorial Hospital and directed millions toward community benefits. He has been a driving force behind transformative healthcare initiatives in Bakersfield. A key milestone was the launch of the internal medicine residency, More in Common Alliance.
The nominees in this category included:
- Christian Hernandez
- Quon Louey
- Zane Smith
Harvey L. Hall Lifetime Achievement – Sponsored by Hall Ambulance Service
A local, long-time community leader, age 55 and over, who has made a lasting impact on Bakersfield and its residents.
Les Clark – Les Clark has dedicated over seven decades to Kern County as a leader in education, oil advocacy, and public service. From school boards to housing, healthcare to economic development, he’s served on over 100 boards and earned countless honors. His tireless work has left a lasting mark on the Westside and beyond.
The nominees in this category inlcuded:
- Lieutenant Commander Dr. Albert McBride
- Cathy Butler
- Les Clark
- Dr. Royce Johnson
- Stana Bright
Chairwoman’s Award
As a finale to the evening, the Chairwoman of the Board of Directors, Deanna Blaise, presented the Chairman’s Award. This award is selected by the Chairwoman of the Chamber’s executive board from all nominees and honors an individual or organization that exemplifies excellence and commitment to the community.
Cathy Butler – For over 50 years, Cathy Butler has shaped the heart of Bakersfield, organizing more than 100 street fairs, reviving the Christmas Parade and helping to launch the Portrait of a Warrior Gallery. From street ambassadors to music festivals, and from downtown safety to beautification, her leadership has been instrumental in making Bakersfield a vibrant and welcoming community.
