Ashlee Kresha
President’s Associates Student Research Scholar
Ashlee Kresha always valued family and community growing up in Bakersfield. As a first-generation college student, she is proud to represent her Salvadoran and Kern County roots while pursuing her academic and athletic passions at CSUB.
Ashlee began golfing during her sophomore year of high school and quickly found that it became a way to bond with her dad after he retired during COVID. Now, as a member of CSUB’s golf team, she continues to grow her love for the sport.
Originally an engineering major, Ashlee decided to pursue economics after discovering a passion for understanding how major industries shape local communities. She was invited by Dr. Rich Ryan, professor of economics, to collaborate on research exploring the critical role of oil and gas tax revenues in Kern County. Ashlee and Dr. Ryan’s research was made possible thanks to the generous contributions of CSUB’s President Associates’ donors.
Research Focus
Chevron is the single largest taxpayer in Kern County,contributing $55 million annually. In total, the oil and gas industry generated nearly $300 million in tax revenue just last year, helping fund essential government services. With California moving toward zero emissions, these tax revenues could drastically decrease, creating significant impacts on public services. Ashlee’s research with Dr. Ryan investigate show the volatility of oil prices directly influences tax revenue and the local economy.
Mentorship Experience
Working alongside Dr. Ryan has been an invaluable experience. “It’s really been a smooth experience working with him—he’s so educated, and I’ve learned a lot just by having conversations and picking his brain,” Ashlee shared.
Future Goals
Looking ahead, Ashlee plans to merge her love for golf and business. She currently works with a commercial real estate brokerage, where she has seen firsthand how many deals and relationships are forged on the golf course. Her long-term goal is to become a commercial real estate agent after graduation.
Balancing her academic schedule, golf tournaments—most of which take place in the spring—and her research commitments hasn’t always been easy. But Ashlee is determined, seeing each challenge as an opportunity to strengthen her skills in time management, teamwork and leadership.
“Golf has given me opportunities to connect with people in business and economics. The Student Research Scholars Program has given me opportunities to grow academically. Both are helping me build toward a career I’m excited about,” Ashlee said.