I was profoundly touched, and very appreciative for the honor of having the Campus Center named after me. In the course of my years at Bakersfield College, many memorable things happened to me along the way, but having my name go up on the Campus Center ranks right up there at the top.
My direct association with the students of the college goes way back to 1958-66 when I was first director of student activities, and then dean of students. During those years I attended Board of Representatives meetings, sometimes the Student Court meetings, and I was very close to the total student activities program. I have stayed in touch with many of the students that I worked with in those days; and this has been very gratifying to me.
I have always thought of the Campus Center as the locus of student life on campus, so it is a particular honor to have this building bear my name. For nearly 50 years the students have been gathering in the Campus Center for all kinds of activities and events. Going to college should be something more than just taking classes and getting the right piece of paper as a result. It is a time for maturing; a time to entertain all kinds of new ideas; and an opportunity to test your ideas against those of other students, both in the classroom and out there in the Campus Center.
I am particularly touched that my name will be associated with the students of many generations to come. Students are forever young, with a new crop every year. As they carry on the traditions of Bakersfield College, I will symbolically be with them, meeting there in the Collins Campus Center. That hits home to me, and I will forever be appreciative for this wonderful gesture that the students and the college have extended to me.
I spent 40 years on the Bakersfield College campus working with and for students. And now, my name will always be connected with the students of this fine college. I am honored, humbled and grateful.