Kern Community Foundation Announces Leadership Transition as President and CEO Prepares for Next Chapter
Bakersfield, CA — December 26, 2025: Kern Community Foundation (KCF) announces that Aaron Falk, President and CEO, will be stepping down as he prepares for his next chapter in South Carolina. The Board Chair, Lydia Chaney, thanks Aaron for his leadership and the difference he has made in Kern County through KCF’s programs and partnerships. “Aaron has done a wonderful job with the Foundation’s growth. While we are saddened to see him go, we wish Aaron and his family the absolute best in their upcoming chapter,” said Chaney.
Since December 2021, Aaron has strengthened KCF’s programs and built strong relationships with local nonprofits and donors. Through his leadership, the Foundation grew its scholarship program to over $1 million and increased Give Big Kern’s visibility, supporting over 120 local nonprofits and reaching $1.7 million in 2025. He also launched the Bakersfield Youth Jobs Program in partnership with the City of Bakersfield, serving over 300 youths, and led Borel Fire disaster relief, granting over $180,000.
To ensure a smooth transition, the Board has appointed Fatima “Teems” Tulfo, the Foundation’s Chief Impact Officer, as Interim CEO. Tulfo will lead the Foundation and collaborate with the Board during the transition. Details about the search process will be shared in late winter.
About Kern Community Foundation
Kern Community Foundation is a vibrant nonprofit enterprise with a simple mission: “Growing Community. Growing Philanthropy.” For 25 years, the Foundation has been in business to serve as a charitable resource for local donors and corporations and to generate capital that provides philanthropic solutions to help make Kern County a better place to live, work, and visit. Since its establishment in 1999, we have been home to almost 200 charitable funds with assets over $50 million. We have awarded close to $30 million in grants and scholarships. For more information about Kern Community Foundation, visit kernfoundation.org.