BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The Bakersfield College Foundation received a financial gift from the Clifford and Patricia Mettler estate to support 120 students enrolled in Bakersfield College’s Agriculture Pathways Early College program.
“We are tremendously grateful for the generous gift offered through the Mettlers’ estate,” said President Sonya Christian. “This gift comes at a time when our community is experiencing uncertainty in many respects. Knowing that future generations of our rural Early College Renegades will be provided the support to pursue their educational dreams is certainly a ray of light for the future of our agricultural community.”
The Mettlers grew up in Kern County, Clifford in Shafter and Patricia in Bakersfield, and both attended local schools. Mrs. Mettler attended Bakersfield College before advancing to the University of Southern California. While the Mettlers spent much of their time traveling the world, their commitment to the well-being and future of Kern County was unwavering.
“My Uncle Cliff was a kind and low-key gentleman farmer, and many people may remember my Aunt Pat for her time teaching braille and volunteering in local service organizations,” said their nephew, John McFarland. “They would be blown away to know that they are helping put students on a path toward success at such an early age. The entire family is proud of this gift and to see the fruits of their labor multiplied.”
“Early College is changing the landscape of education for local students. This gift will ensure students have the resources they need to complete their college degree, while they are earning their high school diploma,” said Cheryl Scott, Executive Director of the Bakersfield College Foundation. “This benefits our entire community and I am proud to be the steward of such a generous endowment.”
The agriculture program is offered at Wasco High School and the Wonderful College Prep Academy in Delano.
