CAL FIRE Santa Clara Unit Assistant Chief Carlos Alcantar. Courtesy photo

CHICO, CA (MPG) - The Butte College Foundation will host its annual gala April 25 at 5:30 p.m. at Manzanita Place in Chico, raising funds to support student programs across multiple disciplines.

Proceeds from the event will benefit students in agriculture leadership, athletics, firefighting, heavy equipment, music, and speech and debate. Organizers said the gala also highlights student achievement and community support for higher education.

The evening will recognize two alumni for their contributions and leadership: CAL FIRE Santa Clara Unit Assistant Chief Carlos Alcantar and Alfred Koudougou Koala, founder and president of Feeding Nations Through Education.

Alcantar, who was raised in Alturas, began his firefighting career as a seasonal firefighter in 1997. He graduated from Butte College’s 33rd Fire Academy and later earned an associate degree in social and behavioral sciences. In 2024, he was promoted to assistant chief, where he oversees cooperative fire operations and emergency services across multiple communities.

He has worked on major incidents, including the Camp Fire, and continues to support mentorship and community outreach efforts.

Alfred Koudougou Koala, founder and president of Feeding Nations Through Education. Courtesy photo

Koala grew up in rural Burkina Faso and later came to the United States to pursue education. While attending Butte College, he found support from classmates and mentors that helped shape his path. That experience led him to create Feeding Nations Through Education, a nonprofit focused on agriculture, clean water, microloans and education initiatives.

Koala earned an associate degree from Butte College, a bachelor’s degree from Chico State and an executive MBA from Sacramento State. He now works as an IT manager for VSP.

“Our 2026 Outstanding Alumni reflect the very best of Butte College,” said Superintendent-President Virginia L. Guleff. “Their journeys highlight how education creates opportunity, inspires leadership, and leaves a lasting impact on communities.”

The gala will include dinner, auctions and a program featuring Butte College students as emcees and performers.

“At the heart of the gala is a celebration of our students,” said Suzanne Watroba, executive director of the Butte College Foundation. “We are honored to partner with supporters who invest in their futures.”

Tickets are $150 and are available at butte.edu/gala.