Faculty
KLA Faculty 2025
Ethical Leadership,
Final Thoughts, Putting It All Together
Nate Olson, Ph. D., is Professor of Philosophy, Chair of the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies, and Interim Director of the Kegley Institute of Ethics at California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB). He received his Ph.D. in Philosophy from Georgetown University and, before joining CSUB, was a postdoctoral fellow at Stanford University. Dr. Olson teaches courses in both ethical theory and practical ethics, with a particular emphasis on ethical issues in professional life and the sciences. He has published articles on biomedical ethics, professional ethics, ethics education, and the philosophy of sport. He is a member of the ethics committee for Dignity Health Bakersfield Memorial Hospital.
Dr. Joseph Florez, the new Associate Director of the Kegley Institute of Ethics, is an Assistant Professor of Religious Studies at California State University, Bakersfield. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge, M.T.S. from Harvard Divinity School, and A.B. from Harvard University. His research focuses on Latinx religious traditions, Pentecostalism, and the intersection of religion with social justice, violence, and marginalization. His book Pentecostalism, Lived Religion, and Social Activism in Authoritarian Chile explores faith-based resistance under dictatorship. At CSUB, Dr. Florez teaches courses on Latinx spiritualities, Native American religion, religion and immigration, and ethics. He is also active in public scholarship and community engagement, contributing to conversations on religion and human rights. His work bridges academic inquiry with lived experience, emphasizing the transformative power of faith in oppressed communities. Through teaching, writing, and advocacy, Dr. Florez fosters critical understanding of religion’s role in shaping identity, resilience, and activism across diverse cultural contexts.
Today’s Ethical Challenges
KLA Alumnae Melissa Frank is Vice President, Sr. Associate General Counsel – Government Affairs for The Wonderful Company. In that role, Melissa Frank manages government relations for The Wonderful Company and its related affiliates, including Wonderful Citrus, Wonderful Orchards, Wonderful Pistachios & Almonds, POM Wonderful, Fiji Water, and Justin Vineyards. Before joining Wonderful in 2009, Melissa was an associate at Nossaman LLP, advising clients on water and land use matters. Melissa received her B.A. from California State University, Fresno, where she was a Maddy Intern, and her J.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Law. Melissa is also an adjunct member of the faculty at California State University, Bakersfield, teaching environmental law. In addition, Melissa serves as President of the Board of Directors for the Maddy Institute of Public Policy at California State University, Fresno, and as a member of the Boards of the Agricultural Council of California and the California Fresh Fruit Association.
KLA Alumna Ariana Joven is a Government Affairs Manager for The Wonderful Company. In this capacity, she focuses on agricultural policy issues and government relations in the Central Valley. Before joining The Wonderful Company, she served as Executive Director of the Kern County Farm Bureau, where she advocated on behalf of local farmers. Ariana previously worked for Congress and the State Assembly, gaining experience working with federal and state governments. In addition, she serves on the Boards of Directors for the Community Action Partnership of Kern Foundation, the Bakersfield College Foundation, and the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Ariana earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agricultural Communications from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.
Critical Thinking Skills
Steven Gamboa, Ph. D., is an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at California State University, Bakersfield. His research is not confined to a single area but instead spans a wide range of topics. His focus is on the intersection between thought, language, and reason. However, he also delves into other areas such as epistemology, philosophy of mind, philosophy of science, inductive logic and confirmation theory, and naturalized ethics. Dr. Gamboa’s versatility is further demonstrated in his research on early modern philosophy, particularly in the works of David Hume.
Five Pillars / Decisions from the Dias
KLA Alumnus Keith Wolaridge, known for his inspiration and passion, is a well-respected leader in the Bakersfield community. Keith, a retired banker, is an associate professor of business at Bakersfield College. He is the owner of Five Pillars and Associates, a leadership development firm specializing in training leaders in public schools. Keith enjoys spending time fulfilling his commitments to his family, church, and neighbors. Keith has served on numerous boards and commissions over the years, including the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra, Commissioner, Kern County Housing Authority, Kern County Workforce Investment Committee, Kern County Human Relations Commission, Kern County Gleaners, Kern County Black Chamber of Commerce, California State University, Bakersfield Athletic Scholarship Board of Directors, and the President’s Advisory Committee for Fresno State. Since 2009, Keith has served as a trustee for the Panama Buena Vista Union School District, which educates over 19,000 students. Keith is married to his wife, Joanne, and they are the proud parents of four beautiful girls. Deeply committed to public education, Keith enjoys speaking with young people in classrooms across the valley, encouraging them to use their education to take them as far as they wish. Keith holds a degree in accounting from Fresno State University, is a graduate of the prestigious Pacific Coast Banking School at the University of Washington Graduate School of Business, and holds a Master of Arts in Christian Leadership from Grand Canyon University and an MBA from National University.
Leading and Managing Group Processes
Morgan E. Clayton, President and Founder of Tel-Tec Security Systems Inc. and Tel-Tec Monitoring Inc., has made significant contributions to the City of Bakersfield. Founded in 1982, Tel-Tec Security Systems is a locally owned and operated security firm serving customers throughout California and Nevada. Morgan’s vision led to the establishment of this company, which specializes in electronic security for both commercial and residential applications. Tel-Tec is known for its custom solutions to security challenges. Morgan embodies servant Leadership, emphasizing trust and relationships in business. He serves as the Chairman of the Board for Dignity Health/Mercy and Mercy Southwest Hospital, contributing to healthcare leadership in the region. His involvement with Memorial Hospital, California State University, and the Cen Cal Business Finance Group demonstrates his commitment to community development. Morgan’s engagement extends beyond business; he founded the Leaders in Life Youth Conference and supports small minority-owned businesses and those in the shadow economy. His documentary with Viewpoint Project, hosted by Dennis Quaid, sheds light on Tel-Tec Security and its impact34. As an author, Morgan aimed to uplift small businesses in the region. His work likely provides valuable insights and strategies for entrepreneurs. His participation in Kern Venture Group, which invests in small business startups, contributes to economic growth and innovation. Morgan’s multifaceted involvement in business, Leadership, and community initiatives underscores his dedication to sustainable economic development in Kern County. His focus on relationships, trust, and service aligns with successful public-private partnerships and community impact theory.
Homelessness
Stacy Kuwahara is a Kern County leader whose career blends deep compassion with sharp operational insight. Raised in Bakersfield, she began as a volunteer. She rose to lead Kern Behavioral Health & Recovery Services, overseeing over 1,000 employees and a significant budget to tackle mental health and homelessness. Her experience spans residential treatment in San Diego and clinical practice in England, where personal tragedy—the loss of her husband—shaped her return home with renewed purpose. Now serving as Kern County’s Chief Operations Officer, Stacy brings empathy into government, transforming systems and championing vulnerable communities. With degrees in psychology and counseling, she’s a licensed therapist, EMDR practitioner, and Lean Six Sigma Greenbelt. Whether coordinating county-wide initiatives or supporting local families, she leads with heart, resilience, and a commitment to making public service deeply personal.
KLA Alumna Lauren Skidmore, CEO of Open Door Network, is a pragmatic leader and visionary collaborator with years of experience working with diverse private and public sectors. As a bridge builder, Mrs. Skidmore has a deep passion for facilitating change and advocacy for all communities in greater Kern County, particularly those who are the most vulnerable. Mrs. Skidmore served as the District Director for Assemblyman Vince Fong of the 34th Assembly District, where she advocated for the diverse interests and needs of the Assemblyman’s constituents. Previously, Mrs. Skidmore served as the Director of Kern Citizens for Sustainable Government, where she enhanced the organization’s impact on government transparency and efficiency. As a fifth-generation cattle rancher, Mrs. Skidmore is keenly aware of the challenges faced by small business owners, which has prompted her to create innovative programs, such as the Bakersfield Young Professionals, while working as the Communications Manager for the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce. Mrs. Skidmore is actively involved in numerous leadership organizations and committees, including the Bakersfield College Foundation, the Kern County Planning Commission, and the Kern County Employee Retirement Association. Mrs. Skidmore is a wife and working mother of two children. She earned a B.S. in Business Administration (Management) from California State University, Fresno, and a Master of Science in Community Development from Kansas State University.
Healthcare
Melinda Santiago is the Director of Behavioral Health at Kern Health Systems, where she leads efforts to expand access to high-quality, compassionate behavioral health care across Kern County. A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2009, she brings over two decades of experience in behavioral health and social services, with a strong commitment to serving underserved communities. Melinda holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Science in Counseling from California State University, Northridge, as well as a Master’s in Health Administration from the University of Phoenix. Her career spans leadership roles in Medi-Cal managed care, outpatient behavioral health, juvenile justice facilities, residential youth programs, and substance use disorder treatment. She is deeply committed to eliminating barriers to care and advancing health equity, ensuring that every individual has access to the mental health services they need and deserve.
Brynn Carrigan has served as the Director of Kern County Public Health since January 2021. With nearly 16 years of experience working for the County of Kern, she oversees a broad range of departmental programs and services. Brynn has been instrumental in developing innovative community-based initiatives such as Waste Hunger Not Food, Certified Healthy, and Know Your Numbers, all aimed at improving the overall health of residents. A graduate of South High School and California State University, Bakersfield, where she earned a degree in Business Administration, Brynn’s Leadership has driven efforts to enhance access to care, promote wellness, and prevent disease. She remains a dedicated advocate for public health education and innovative outreach to support the well-being of Kern County communities.
Alison Burrowes is the Director of Kern County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services, officially appointed in January 2024 after over 20 years with the department. She brings deep experience across a range of behavioral health areas, including homelessness services, acute care, foster youth, and substance use treatment. Her career has spanned multiple roles, including Case Manager, Therapist, Unit Supervisor, Behavioral Health Administrator, Deputy Director, and Interim Director. A graduate of West High School in Bakersfield, Alison earned Bachelor’s degrees in English and Sociology from Massey University in New Zealand, and Master’s degrees in Sociology and Social Work from CSU Bakersfield. She is also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Alison has led key initiatives to strengthen Kern County’s behavioral health system, securing grant funding, expanding housing and treatment infrastructure, and advancing efforts to improve services for vulnerable populations.
Building a 21st Century Workforce
Mike Zulfa, Ed.D., is a highly esteemed educator with thirty years of experience in education, including a 25-year career with the Kern High School District. He is a proud alumnus of West High School and began his educational journey as a teacher at Garces Memorial High School. In 1999, he continued his passion for education, teaching at South High School. Over the years, Dr. Zulfa assumed increasingly essential roles within the district, including serving as the Dean of Instruction at South High School in 2003 and as the Assistant Principal of Instruction at Foothill High School in 2005. In 2009, Dr. Zulfa’s Leadership led him to become the Principal of South High School. His dedication to educational excellence continued, and in 2011, he was appointed Assistant Superintendent of Instruction for the Kern High School District. In 2014, he was appointed Associate Superintendent of Human Resources and would assume the responsibilities as the Associate Superintendent of Business in 2021. In February of 2024, Dr. Zulfa became the 22nd Superintendent of the Kern High School District.
Brian Miller possesses a remarkable track record as an innovator and Principal of the Kern High School District’s Regional Occupational Programs (ROP), encompassing both the Regional Occupational Center (ROC) and the Career Technical Education Center (CTEC). With thirteen years of distinguished administrative experience in ROP, Brian excels in fostering collaborative relationships with educational institutions, industries, and community stakeholders. His unwavering dedication is evident in his pursuit of developing high-quality career pathways for students, enabling them to make a successful transition to postsecondary education and the workforce. As a visionary leader in workforce development, Brian forges robust partnerships. He relentlessly seeks innovative approaches to prepare the next generation of workers in the community, contributing to their growth and success.
Building Kern’s Next Economic Future
Georgia Petropoulos is the President and CEO of B3K Prosperity, a regional nonprofit driving inclusive economic growth across Kern County, California. Appointed in 2024, she leads strategic initiatives to create 100,000 quality jobs by 2031, reduce child poverty, and expand opportunity across diverse communities. Petropoulos brings over two decades of experience in urban economic development, previously serving as CEO of the Oakland Business Improvement District in Pittsburgh. At B3K, she has launched transformative efforts, including the Aerospace Innovation Hub in East Kern and the MAACC Fund, supporting early-stage aerospace startups. Her leadership emphasizes collaboration, equity, and innovation, engaging stakeholders from business, government, and education to build a resilient regional economy. Petropoulos is recognized for her visionary approach and commitment to making Kern County a model for inclusive prosperity and entrepreneurial growth
Poverty
Jessica Grimes, Ph. D., Dean of Economic and Workforce Development, Kern Community College District, serves as the regional chair for the Central Valley/Mother Lode Regional Consortium and plays a lead role in ensuring a broad and equitable post-pandemic workforce recovery throughout the region. Grimes, a Bakersfield native, came to KCCD from Taft College, where she most recently served as Dean of Instruction and Career Technical Education. Before that, she was an English professor for 10 years at Taft College. She earned an undergraduate degree in English from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, a master’s degree in Religion and the Arts from Yale University, and a Ph. D. in Literature and Criticism from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
Addressing Societal Ills
KLA Alumnus Juan Avila, born and raised in Bakersfield, is the COO at Garden Pathways. Juan grew up in the neighborhood around Martin Luther King Jr. Park, where he attended Fremont Elementary, Chipman Jr. High, and Bakersfield High School. Juan is the oldest of three, with parents who cared for and provided through their work in the Kern County fields. Juan was the first in his family to attend college and earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from California State University, Northridge, as well as a master’s degree in Business from California State University, Bakersfield. His first job at 16 was in the grape fields, where he realized he preferred to go to school. Juan has worked as a case manager, a youth mentor, and a legal clerk. When he returned to Bakersfield in 2003, he worked as a case manager for youth at Clinica Sierra Vista. In 2006, he worked as Executive Director of the Parent Institute for Quality Education (PIQE); in 2010, as Director for nonprofit outreach at Kern Community Foundation; in 2012, as a field representative for former 5th District Supervisor Karen Goh; and in 2013, Juan joined his current employer, Garden Pathways, a local nonprofit that mentors youth and adults. Juan is an enthusiastic advocate for marginalized, at-risk, and underserved individuals. Juan believes that despite life’s challenges, the simple fact that one exists means one is valuable to this world.
The Status of Kern County’s Workforce
Richard Gearhart, Ph.D., joined CSUB in August 2014, coming from Clemson University in South Carolina, where he earned his master’s degree and Ph.D. in Economics. He is currently an Associate Professor of Economics and is the Managing Editor of the Kern Economic Journal, a publication that tracks and analyzes local economic trends and data. Richard is an expert on Health Economics, Labor Economics, and Regional Economics, analyzing the efficiency and productivity of healthcare delivery systems at the individual, local, and regional levels. He has published over a dozen peer-reviewed articles examining the efficiency of healthcare delivery systems and the impact of energy on regional economic outcomes. He has assessed the effects of healthcare resource shortages on patient outcomes. His most current research examines the effects of CBD products on opioid consumption, driving impairment, and opioid overdose death rates.
Kern County Looking Forward
Mark Evans, Ph. D. was awarded the Ph.D. in Economics by the University of New Mexico and joined CSUB’s Economics faculty in Fall 1978. His publications are in the areas of Regional Economics and Economics Education. Dr. Evans’ administrative appointments at CSUB include Economics Department Chair (1987-1996 and 2008-present); Director of Petroleum Land Studies/Environmental Resource Management (1991-2000); Interim Dean of the Extended University Division (2000-2005); Associate Dean of Business and Public Administration (2005-2012, including one year as Interim Dean); and Director of the Center for Economic Education and Research (1979-1993, 1996-1999). While serving as the Antelope Valley Center administrator (2000-2004), the Center rapidly grew to over 700 full-time equivalent students. It achieved recognition in the state’s higher education master plan as an official off-campus center. Dr. Evans has been a curriculum leader at CSUB. He developed the B.S. in Petroleum Land Management program, which has evolved into a highly successful Environmental Resource Management degree program. He also designed the B.S. in Applied Studies, a degree completion program that bridges technical programs offered by community colleges to the baccalaureate. He developed the first two fully online degree programs CSUB’s Extended University offered: the B.S. in Environmental Resource Management and the M.S. in Administration.
Nyakundi Michieka, Ph. D., joined California State University, Bakersfield, in September 2014 as an Assistant Professor of Economics. His primary research involves energy, environmental economics, regional economics, and food security. Dr. Michieka’s research can be found in various working papers, book chapters, and peer-reviewed publications in The Energy Policy Journal, Applied Energy, The Journal of Regional Analysis and Policy, and The Journal of Food Distribution and Research. Nyakundi’s current work examines the long- and short-term effects of oil prices on Kern County’s economy. Other research areas focus on the energy-water nexus. He also reports on current economic trends in Kern County in CSUB’s Kern Economic Journal with Dr. Gearhart. Nyakundi grew up in Kenya, earning his undergraduate degree in Mechatronic Engineering before coming to the United States. His Ph.D. is in Natural Resource and Environmental Economics from West Virginia University.
Issues (Challenges) Facing Regional, Private and Public Sectors
Jim Damian, a Kern County native, holds a Bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University and a Master’s degree from UC Berkeley. As a private sector entrepreneur, he was recognized as Bakersfield’s Businessperson of the Year, and his company, Stria, was a five-time INC 5000 honoree. In 2023, after selling Stria, Jim became Kern County’s first-ever Chief Economic Development Officer. He is dedicated to making Kern County the best place in the State of California to start and grow a business.
Agriculture & Water
Rachel Nettleton, as Executive Director of the Kern County Farm Bureau, champions local agriculture as the backbone of Kern County’s economy and culture. With a dynamic background in marketing and Leadership, she brings a deep understanding of the region’s unique challenges and opportunities. Rachel collaborates with farmers and ranchers to foster innovation, build sustainable practices, and advocate for policies that support agricultural success. Her vision emphasizes keeping agriculture central to Kern’s identity while driving progress through partnerships and education. Enthusiastic about raising public awareness, Rachel works to ensure that the vital role of agriculture is understood and celebrated across the community. Through her Leadership, the Farm Bureau remains a strong voice for Kern County’s farming future.
Jenny Holtermann is the Executive Director of the Water Association of Kern County, where she oversees membership, event planning, outreach efforts, and coordination for the organization. Jenny is also a 4th-generation California farmer who grew up on her family’s almond and walnut farm in Chico. Today, Jenny and her husband, Tim, farm almonds with his family in Wasco & Shafter. Their roots in Kern County date back to 1919, on some of the same lands they continue to farm today. Jenny is a prominent social media advocate known as “Almond Girl.” They also directly market almonds under the same brand. Jenny is an active advocate for agricultural and water issues in various roles, both locally and in state and national positions. She currently serves as the President of Kern County Farm Bureau. She has served on numerous committees of the Almond Board of California, where she currently serves on the Global Communications Committee. She is a past board member of the California Farm Bureau (2018-2021), a graduate of the American Farm Bureau Partners in Advocacy Leadership Program (Class 10), a graduate of the Almond Leadership Program, and a past Planning Commissioner for the City of Wasco. Jenny and Tim have two children and reside on their almond farm in Shafter, where they enjoy tending to the homestead as a family.
Understanding Community Systems and Community Problem Solving
Christian Clegg was selected as the City Manager of the City of Bakersfield in 2020. A passionate, community-oriented local government leader, Christian is dedicated to transforming the way local governments engage with and support their communities. Christian leveraged outstanding mentorship in the City Manager’s Office of the City of Tacoma, Wash., during a period in which the City undertook a comprehensive organizational change effort to become a high-performance organization. Christian then transitioned to Stockton, Calif., as part of the new executive team rebuilding and driving change to create a new future for this community. His initial focus was on rebuilding the core internal organizational capacities, including performance management, internal controls, and technology governance. Christian then shifted to community engagement with external partners, building regional collective impact strategies and implementing priority projects, such as the Office of Violence Prevention. Since arriving in Bakersfield, Christian has worked to modernize the organization, adopt best practices, and empower employees and the community to find solutions through collaborative, innovative programs.
Financing Local Government
Alex Alva serves as the Budget and Finance Director for the Kern County Administrative Office, where he leads the division responsible for developing and administering the County’s Recommended Budget and long-term financial planning. Reporting to the Assistant County Administrative Officer, Alex provides strategic direction on budgetary policy, fiscal administration, and interdepartmental coordination. He leads a team of Analysts in providing operational development, financial oversight, budget development, and advising on capital planning, debt management, and long-term fiscal strategy. As a member of the Executive Management Team, Alex advises County leadership on financial strategy, legislative impacts, technical accounting issues, and labor cost analysis. He works closely with the County Auditor-Controller, departmental executives, and the Chief Human Resources Officer to ensure sound fiscal stewardship and transparent financial reporting. Known for his collaborative Leadership, strong analytical skills, and commitment to public service, Alex plays a vital role in aligning the County’s financial resources with its strategic priorities.
KLA Alumnus, Joe Arriola serves as a Senior Fiscal and Policy Analyst in the County Administrative Office, where he leads high-level fiscal, policy, and legislative analysis for the County’s public safety departments. Joe conducts complex studies on organizational performance, budgetary strategy, compliance, and intergovernmental policy. He provides strategic guidance to department leadership and helps shape recommendations that align departmental budgets with Countywide priorities. In his role, Joe regularly interfaces with executive Leadership, legislative advocates, and departmental managers to evaluate funding proposals, implement audit recommendations, and ensure adherence to County policies and procedures. He plays a key role in budget development, capital project oversight, public reporting, and legislative analysis. Joe’s work contributes to the County’s efforts to deliver effective and fiscally responsible public safety services.
Local Government
Scott Hurlbert began his career as the first employee of Cornerstone Engineering, a startup Civil Engineering firm specializing in subdivision and land development. With the advent of the personal computer, he began taking computer science courses. Then, in 1984, he joined Quantum Data Systems, a startup software consulting firm, as its first employee. These two startup companies’ experiences helped shape his entrepreneurial instincts and boot-strap approach to company growth and management. In 1987, he co-founded MicroTrack, a technology consulting firm specializing in automation for the petroleum, agriculture, and education industries, which he operated for 18 years. Scott joined the City of Shafter in 2005 as an Information Technology Manager, where he implemented city-wide technology improvements and spearheaded the Shafter Connect municipal fiber-optic network project. He assumed the duties of Assistant City Manager in 2009 and was promoted to City Manager in 2014. Through strategic planning and visionary Leadership, the City is a regional distribution and industrial hub. Scott retired in 2019 and worked with Bakersfield College on strategic projects. In June 2021, he accepted the City Manager position in the City of Wasco, where he continues to serve the public. Scott and his wife, Beverlee, reside in Shafter and have one daughter.
Economic Development: How We Compete and What are Customers Saying
Barry Hibbard started his real estate career with Karpe Real Estate in 1989 as a licensed salesperson in the commercial and industrial divisions. Karpe’s real estate practice encompasses sales, property management, land development, new home construction, and hard money lending, providing a solid knowledge base in all areas of real estate. In 1998, Barry joined the Tejon Ranch Company as the Director of Marketing and was promoted to Vice President for Commercial and Industrial Development. While at Tejon, he led the team responsible for developing, marketing, sales, and leasing the 1,450-acre Tejon Commerce Center. During his 12 years with Tejon Ranch, he sold, hired, or set up over 300 acres of industrial properties, encompassing 3.2 million square feet and 90,000 square feet of freeway commercial and retail properties. In 2010, Barry started his development and consulting firm, Central Valley Investments. His focus was on the intersection of supply chain and goods movement trends with industrial development. In 2011, Barry joined Newmark Grubb, one of Bakersfield’s leading commercial real estate firms. His primary project is the new Silver Wings Commerce Center, a 115-acre mixed-use business park at the Kern County Airport. Barry graduated from Michigan State University, where he was a member of the swim team. He remains an enthusiastic Spartan fan and continues to swim by competing in the annual Alcatraz Swim in San Francisco Bay. He received his Master of Business Administration from California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB). Barry is active in the community, supporting children’s charities through the Police Activities League and the West Bakersfield Rotary Club.
Academy Director
Class Orientation, Community Leadership
Final Thoughts, Putting It All Together, Class Recommendations
Michael Turnipseed is the Executive Director of the Kern County Taxpayers Association. For 50 years, he has been a self-employed businessman, actively participating in numerous business, political, and civic projects. Since 2005, he has managed KernTax, a member-supported, non-partisan, nonprofit corporation whose purpose is to promote, through cooperative effort and communication, a more excellent economy, efficiency, and effectiveness in government, basing its recommendations on the analysis of facts obtained through research. The organization is widely viewed as one of the most respected citizen advocacy groups in Kern County. Michael received his Bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics from the University of California, Davis, graduated from the California Agricultural Leadership Program and Leadership Bakersfield, completed the Executive Program in Management at the Anderson Graduate School of Management, University of California Los Angeles, completed the SACRES Public Pension Investment Management Program conducted by the Haas School of Business, University of California, Berkeley; and completed CAPRS Board Leadership Institute: Advanced Principles in Governance, conducted by the Anderson Graduate School of Management, University of California, Los Angeles. Michael and his wife, Nancy, have been married for 47 years, and they have two grown daughters, Amy and Alissa, as well as three grandchildren, Harriett, Helen, and Henry.
Academy Communications Director
Marlene B. Heise is the Owner of Heise Media Group, a marketing, advertising, design, and public relations firm. Heise Media Group is responsible for creating marketing campaigns to build clients’ brand equity in the market, planning comprehensive multi-media advertising, and crafting award-winning public relations campaigns. Before founding Heise Media Group, Ms. Heise was employed in the broadcasting industry for over 20 years and served as a board member for the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) in 100+ markets. She has served on numerous nonprofit boards and is currently a member of the Bakersfield Breakfast Rotary. Ms. Heise, a native of Wisconsin, has lived in Bakersfield for over 20 years and has one son, Nicholas, who graduated with a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of California, Riverside, and is currently employed by Halliburton.