Hidden Figures Author Margot Lee Shetterly Inspires Bakersfield College Community
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
By Deanna Rea
Bakersfield College recently welcomed Margot Lee Shetterly, author of Hidden Figures, to its Panorama campus in honor of Black History Month and Women’s History Month. The event drew an overwhelming turnout, with the Renegade Event Center filled to near capacity. Students, faculty, and community members were all present, eager to hear Shetterly’s insights, inspirations, and current projects.
Shetterly started the conversation by discussing the three “no longer hidden figures" of her novel: Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughn, and Mary Jackson. A central theme of Shetterly’s talk was the idea that ordinary people are capable of achieving extraordinary things. She emphasized that the women of Hidden Figures were not household names, nor were they widely recognized as pioneers in their time, but it was because of their dedication, intellect, and perseverance that they were able to make history. She encouraged BC students to recognize their own potential, reminding them that greatness is achieved through hard work, passion, and the willingness to challenge barriers.
Shetterly also discussed the research process behind her book, sharing how she uncovered these untold stories through archival research, interviews, and personal accounts. She highlighted the importance of storytelling in preserving history and ensuring that the contributions of marginalized communities are recognized. Following her talk, Shetterly engaged in a thought-provoking Q & A session with attendees, where she shared her thoughts on how to bridge the gap between different communities and the process of turning her book into a hit movie.
Dr. Jerry E. Fliger, President of Bakersfield College, was excited to have Margot Lee Shetterly speak to the BC community. “Our mission is to improve the economic, cultural, and social lives of our community,” said Dr. Fliger, “and this [event] contributes directly to that.” The event concluded with a book signing, where attendees had the opportunity to meet the author in person. Her visit has left a lasting impact on the college community, sparking meaningful conversations about the importance of dialogue, research, and making connections.
The evening proved to be a truly inspirational experience for those who were able to attend. Margot Lee Shetterly’s visit is a special moment in the history of BC and no doubt will have a lasting impact on the college community's past, present, and future.
