Butte College Alums
At Butte College, your journey doesn’t end at graduation. As a Roadrunner alum, you’re part of a community that continues to grow, support one another, and make a difference throughout our region and beyond. Whether you want to reconnect with classmates, advance your career, or give back, we’re here to help you stay connected.
Outstanding Alums
Each year, Butte College recognizes two outstanding alumni whose achievements, leadership, and service have made a lasting impact on their communities or professions. These honorees reflect the values of Butte College through their dedication, innovation, and commitment to creating positive change.
2026 Outstanding Alums
Carlos Alcantar
Born in Southern California and raised in Alturas by a hardworking immigrant mother, Carlos was inspired at a young age to become a firefighter after a life-changing encounter with first responders. Starting as a seasonal firefighter in 1997, he has built a career characterized by leadership and perseverance, being promoted to assistant chief in 2024. He now manages cooperative fire operations serving multiple communities, leading teams that provide critical fire protection and emergency medical services.
A graduate of Butte College’s 33rd Fire Academy, Carlos later earned his associate degree in social and behavioral sciences, a milestone that helped advance his path into a leadership position with CAL FIRE. His commitment to lifelong learning reflects his dedication to growth and excellence.
Carlos has served on the front lines of major incidents, including the Camp Fire, and remains deeply engaged in community outreach and mentorship. Known for his integrity and compassion, he continues to inspire others through his service and leadership.
Alfred Koala
Alfred Koudougou Koala has transformed a life of hardship into a global mission of service. Raised in rural Burkina Faso without electricity or running water, he faced extreme poverty and food insecurity. He traveled to the United States, determined to change his circumstances, and pursued education, enrolling at Butte College, where he found a supportive community that helped him thrive.
While at Butte College, a profound act of generosity from his classmates and mentors inspired Alfred to launch what would become his nonprofit organization. Today, Feeding Nations Through Education has impacted hundreds of thousands of lives through sustainable agriculture, clean water projects, microloans, and educational support.
Alfred earned an associate degree from Butte College, a bachelor’s from Chico State, and an executive MBA from Sacramento State, and now serves as an IT Manager for VSP. His journey reflects resilience and a deep commitment to uplifting others through education and opportunity.
Alum News
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