Karen Goh


Karen K. Goh is an American politician and non-profit organization executive from California. Goh is the 26th and current mayor of Bakersfield, California, since January 3, 2017.

Early life

In 1955, Goh was born in India. Goh's parents were Harry and Kathleen Goh, missionaries. Goh has a brother, David Goh. In June 1962, at seven years old, Goh and her family moved from London, England to Bakersfield, California. Goh's parent provided ministry leadership for the Bakersfield Chinese Church. Goh's family founded Garden Community Church in Bakersfield, California. At age 12, Goh became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Goh graduated from Bakersfield High School.

Education

In 1978, Goh earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from USC. In 1981, Goh completed all courses in Master of Music Education from USC.

Career

Goh was a music instructor at Bakersfield Christian Life Schools and then moved to New York City to work at the McGraw-Hill Companies, where she held several positions including vice president of publishing operations.
After returning to Bakersfield in 2005, Goh volunteered at Garden Pathways for five years.
On December 10, 2010, Goh became the fifth district supervisor of Kern County, until 2013.
In 2013, Goh became the President and CEO of Garden Pathways, a non-profit organization, in Bakersfield.
On November 8, 2016, at age 60, Goh won the runoff election and became the 26th mayor of Bakersfield, California. Goh defeated Kyle Carter with 52.75% of the votes.
Goh became the first mayor of Asian descent and second woman mayor in Bakersfield, California.
Goh was reelected to a second term following the March 3, 2020 primary election.

Awards

In March 2004, Goh's mother died in Bakersfield. In 2005, Goh moved from the East Coast back to Bakersfield. Goh is single.