Paula oversees organizational operations, administrative systems, grant compliance, financial coordination, and internal workflows that support the organization’s growth and long-term sustainability. She works closely with staff and leadership to strengthen systems, improve efficiency, and support community-driven food systems programming throughout the region.

Previously, Paula served as the Food Sovereignty Program Manager for the Yurok Tribe Environmental Department, where she supervised staff, managed grants and reporting requirements, developed operational systems, and oversaw food sovereignty projects. She also teaches “Decolonizing Public Health” at California Polytechnic State University, Humboldt and has experience in nonprofit operations, Indigenous health research, nutrition, and Tribal program administration.

Paula is an enrolled member of the Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation and grew up on the Yurok Reservation with family ties to both tribes. She cares deeply about supporting Tribal food sovereignty, community wellness, and equitable access to culturally meaningful foods. She values collaboration, accountability, and creating welcoming spaces where community members feel heard, respected, and supported.

Her previous work includes leading projects such as Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) food distributions, Klamath Promise Neighborhoods’ Klamath Food Village Development, collaboration with the Cultural Fire Management Council through TREX, and supporting University of California, Merced Alternative Spring Break efforts at the Klamath Food Village.

Fun Fact: Paula enjoys getting her hands dirty. Some of her favorite pastimes include gutting deer, elk, and eels. She values the role of traditional food processing and kitchen work as an important part of Tribal culture and community care.

Education:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Indigenous Health, University of North Dakota (2024)

• Associate of Arts in Math & Science, Mission College (2014)

• Bachelor of Science in Family Consumer Sciences: Food & Nutrition, University of Idaho (2019)

• Master of Public Health in Indigenous Health, University of North Dakota (2021)