In January, Bakersfield College hired new school Director of Student Outreach Steve Watkin. Watkin comes with a standout resume and plan for the district that should not go unnoticed. With nearly 25 years of experience, Watkin decided to bring his talents to BC. Watkin worked a similar position at Cal State – Bakersfield for 13 years, Fresno Pacific for six years and Fresno State for five.

Watkin said his goal is to attract students to BC. As such, he plans to do so by reconnecting with the local schools and communities. He said he feels it is of the utmost importance to maintain those relationships. In an effort to do so, there was a college night held on Sept. 8 to focus on the recruitment of new students.

Watkin is also revising the student orientation program and re-establishing its purpose. What he calls “Start Now” is designed to allow participating students to have the option to take their placement tests, attend a new student orientation program, develop an abbreviated student educational plan, apply for financial aid, and register for classes all in one day.

“It’s still possible to become a Renegade in one day,” Watkin said.