California State University Bakersfield President, Dr. Vernon B. Harper Jr., inducted as 2026 Chairman of the Board at the Annual Board Installation & Awards Luncheon
Rooted in community, driven by opportunity, and united by a shared belief in education and enterprise, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber celebrated its 106-year legacy while charting a forward-looking course for the region’s business community. At its Annual Board Installation & Awards Luncheon, the Chamber officially inducted California State University, Bakersfield President Dr. Vernon B. Harper Jr. as its 2026 Chairman of the Board of Directors.
Dr. Harper’s induction signals a continued commitment to collaboration, workforce development, and economic vitality, values that have defined the Chamber for more than a century and remain essential as Bakersfield enters a pivotal year for growth and leadership.
“For 106 years, the Chamber has existed because this community believed in itself, its people, its potential, and its power to build something better together,” said Capra. “As we honor the leaders who shaped our past, we also embrace a future defined by collaboration, innovation, and shared vision. We are energized by the leadership ahead and confident in the direction this Board will take us.”
Outgoing Chairwoman Deanna Blaise, SVP & Chief Business Officer at Valley Strong Credit Union, was honored for her leadership and service with a state resolution from Senator Shannon Grove’s office. Blaise ceremoniously passed the gavel to Dr. Harper during the formal guard change, marking a seamless transition of leadership.
The luncheon also celebrated individuals whose dedication strengthened the Chamber and the broader business community throughout the year:
- Ambassador of the Year: Priyanka Saha, Little Guide
- Chamber Champion: David Perkins, Greet Seven Oaks
- Community Impact: Ashley Tennant, Adventist Health
- Advocacy Partner of the Year: Suzanne Noble, Western States Petroleum Association
- Business Partner of the Year: Karen Zuber, Bank of America
Outgoing board members Rob Duchow (SoCal Gas), Ken Keller (Dignity Health, Bakersfield Memorial Hospital), and Jacob Panero (Varner Bros) were recognized for their leadership, service, and commitment to advancing the Chamber’s mission.
Dr. Harper expressed both gratitude and resolve as he accepted the role of Board Chair.
“CSUB owes our very existence to this community’s persistence and belief that giving our sons and daughters access to higher education is the key to progress and prosperity for all,” he said. “That spirit of unity has never been stronger, and it will guide my leadership of the Board of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce in 2026, a year that heralds tantalizing opportunities for small businesses, new enterprises, and job creation for the families of our city.”
Dr. Harper emphasized: “One major focus of my leadership – understandably – will be education. The correlation between the number of college degrees and a region’s success is undeniable. But we recognize that in order to be a source of new beginnings for the entire community, CSUB must offer more than the traditional four-year degree. In that spirit, we are launching more certification and training programs – including in the ever-expanding world of AI – for people already in the workforce who wish to become leaders in their fields.”
Capra echoed Dr. Harper’s remarks, reinforcing the Chamber’s role as a convener and catalyst for regional progress.
“Our work has always lived at the intersection of business, education, and community,” said Capra. “As we look ahead, the Chamber will continue to champion small businesses, invest in talent, and bring stakeholders together to confront the challenges and seize the opportunities that will define Bakersfield’s future.”
The luncheon, held at Seven Oaks Country Club in southwest Bakersfield, drew approximately 300 attendees. Presenting sponsors included Dignity Health, Mercy, Memorial Hospitals, and Valley Strong Credit Union.
The Chamber remains dedicated to driving economic expansion, supporting businesses, and enhancing the quality of life in the region. Under its new board leadership, the Chamber is poised to build a brighter future for Bakersfield’s business community.
Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors
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Thank you to our Gold Sponsor
Thank you to our Bronze Sponsors
