Saubel’s mission for as long as she can remember was to preserve the language and culture of her people. A Cahuilla Indian, she grew up in poverty on reservations in Southern California. At school, speaking her native language was punished, as was opposing how her people were portrayed in history. Saubel’s tenacity was apparent from an early age. She was the first Indian girl to graduate from Palm Springs High School despite having to confront many obstacles to do so. This 80 year old is an educator, museum founder, social activist and inspirational leader to all who know her.