Carla Gard

Biography

Carla M. Gard, an Executive Dean of Nursing and Allied Health for Bakersfield College, is a visionary leader dedicated to driving innovation in nursing and allied health programs in California’s Central Valley. Carla earned her Master’s degree from UCLA as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. Currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Nursing at Azusa Pacific University, she is focusing on the spirituality and impact of death and dying on the nurse. She anticipates completion by December 2024.

Passionate and enthusiastic, Carla leads with a commitment to excellence, leveraging strong relationships to build robust programs tailored to the evolving needs of the local and surrounding communities. With a forward-thinking approach, Carla is shaping the future of nursing education, ensuring graduates are prepared to address the complexities of modern healthcare with skill, confidence, and compassion.