Bruin Highlight: Past, Present & Future 
This July 2024 we are highlighting Native Bruin Patricia Bengochia (also known as Petey) from the Bishop Paiute Tribal nation, a graduate of 1976.Patricia Bengochia, is one of the first group of Native students that was recruited to UCLA. Pat majored in History with a focus on American Indian history, including Indian Law. Following her graduation in 1976, she began her career within her tribe’s Education sector before transitioning to the Gaming Commission, where she has served for the past 25 years.
Patricia, also known as Petey, has dedicated herself to preserving the Nüümu (Paiute) language by working with students and encouraging her grandchildren to embrace their heritage and language. Additionally, she actively participates in the elders committee and Tribal Historical Preservation office. Petey has two children, Lavina and Everett Bengochia, and four beloved grandchildren.
“The best memories I have of being an American Indian on the UCLA Campus is meeting so many other tribal members from across Indian Country and identifying with each other, we had so much fun taking part in so many events. The best was making long lasting friends’ and I still have contact with them today, we are very proud to have been the first students at UCLA.”