September 3, 2009 - California State University, Bakersfield's Hispanic Excellence Scholarship Fund will host its 26th annual scholarship awards dinner on Saturday, Sept. 26, at 6 p.m. at the Doubletree Hotel in Bakersfield, 3100 Camino Del Rio Court.

HESF was established in 1984 to increase access to a college education for academically outstanding, financially needy, underrepresented students who have demonstrated leadership. Since its inception, HESF has awarded approximately 1,300 scholarships totaling almost $2.4 million. This year, HESF plans to award 65 scholarships totaling $100,000.

"Local support of the event has been truly impressive as corporations, individuals, and family donors have responded most generously,"said Thomas Martinez, CSUB professor and HESF coordinator. "It is because of the support HESF receives that CSUB's program has become one of the premier scholarship programs of its kind. Most importantly, the hard work and academic excellence of financially needy local students will be recognized."

Keynote speaker for the event will be newly appointed Kern County Superintendent of Schools Christine Lizardi Frazier. In addition, Joe Schoenstein of Bright House Networks will be awarded the HESF Civic Leadership Award.

Tickets are $60 and sponsorships are still available.