Beginning in June 2006, Jack Hernandez came out of retirement and was appointed Interim Vice President of Student Learning at Bakersfield College; Hernandez will fill in this position until the search for someone to permanently occupy the position is completed.
“Dr. Hernandez was selected, because it was ideal for him to step in; it was because of his strong background in education, administration, faculty, and knowledge of BC, and because of his knowledge, the transition of the new vice president is also ideal,” said William Andrews, president of BC.
Hernandez began his education in 1959 at the University of Michigan, receiving his B.A. in English, philosophy, and religion. In 1961, he received his M.A. in English.
At UCLA, he received his Ed.D. Higher Education and Philosophy of Education. His dissertation topic in undergraduate general education was Clarifying Personal Moral Values, in 1971.
Hernandez has taught at several colleges including Fresno State, CSUB and BC; he taught English courses, philosophy, and American literature.
He has a solid background in administration at BC, such as assistant to the dean of the Evening Division, 1966-67; director of Student Affairs, 1967-68; assistant to the president for Special Student Affairs, 1968-72; assistant to the president for Student and Administrative Services, 1972-74; and dean of students and assistant to the president, 1974-79.
His administrative work continued with the Kern Community College District: vice chancellor, 1979-85; personnel administration for the three colleges, including contract negotiations and administration, staff development and compensation; student services for the three colleges; and district-wide humanities council.
He is a current member of the Accrediting Commission’s External Review Committee, and has held several prior Accrediting Commission positions.
Hernandez gave his first Norman Levan Seminar in Nov. 2005. He has wrote two books, “Chasing the Wind,” and “Walking with Socrates.” He has written several articles, poetry for various books and magazines, and written more than 200 weekly columns. Hernandez will end his appointment at the end of October; however, he will always be around to give a helping hand.
“I came out of retirement because BC is a great place to work, to help college students, faculty and staff. And in addition to that, it is great having a chance to work with a lot of really wonderful people.
I’ve never forgotten that I am a teacher. I remember my love of teaching and helping students.
I can’t stop; there is no such thing as retirement. This is who I am,” said Hernandez.
Hernandez will soon leave the administration building; however, he won’t be far away. He will take on a new project with the Norman Levan Center.”I will be working with the Foundation of Excellence, making sure the first year student’s experience at BC goes well. I will also do guest speaking on campus,” said Hernandez.