Of the six Luiseño reservations, the Pauma tribe is historically one of the smallest communities based on population. However, our small size is overcome by the strength of our community members.  Our tribal members are committed to the promotion of education and pride in our heritage and community.  Pauma tribal members have engaged in many endeavors, and continue to expand on many horizons today. Numerous community members have achieved successful careers in healthcare, education, administrative services and small business. Our tribal members are teachers, doctors, musicians, artists, storytellers, firemen, policemen, and knowledge keepers of traditional Luiseño ways. From the youngest toddlers to our oldest elders, every man, woman, and child plays a unique role in the Pauma community.  We celebrate and honor all of them as they each represent the continuity of Pauma tribal traditions and culture.

Here are just a few of many Pauma people we would like you to know:

Rosemary and Doreen Forbes both pursued nursing careers. Their passion for healthcare was shared by their cousin, Daniel Calac, who obtained a degree from Harvard Medical School and became an IHC doctor. Benjamin Magante, Sr. developed and worked in tribal projects for alcohol and drug abuse. Juana Majel pursued and acquired degrees in school counseling. Gene Dixon and Patricia Dixon sought careers in teaching and became high school and college teachers. Bennae Calac and Charlie Devers started a successful cultural resource monitoring company. Cynthia Toledo played a vital role as a counselor and dorm mother at Sherman Indian High School. Mona Celli works in the Indian Health Services. Yolanda Espinoza has expanded the offerings of the tribal library. Several of our younger tribal members are firemen.

Florence Lofton worked for the California Department Employment agency and for nearly 25 years found numerous job opportunities for tribal people. Alvin (Chip) Aguilar and Marilyn Majel both worked for the Bureau of Indian Affairs in roads and tribal operations respectively. Linda Bojorquez owned and ran a successful beauty salon until her retirement to work for Casino Pauma. Leah Calac served as a security officer for the Pechanga Casino and brought her knowledge and skills to her tribe and became part of the Pauma gaming commission. Dee Cline played a significant role in the All Mission Indian Housing Authority, an organization that provided housing for the tribes, like Pauma, who were part of the consortium.

No matter which path they choose, Pauma people have demonstrated a dedication and passion for working to improve tribal communities.  Our collective skills have impacted Native people and provide hope for a promising future.