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Pauline Bell-Ricks was born and raised on the Siletz Reservation. Following the termination of federal support and recognition of western Oregon tribes, Ricks moved to Springfield, Oregon, becoming an Indian Education Coordinator. Through assemblies and events, Ricks incorporated western Oregon Native American culture into school curriculum in the Springfield area.

In 1973, the Confederated Tribes of Siletz reorganized and elected a tribal council with Pauline Ricks as a member. In 1976, Ricks attended Senate hearings, providing testimony in support of the Siletz Restoration Act. The bill was passed and signed by Jimmy Carter on November 18, 1977, restoring federal recognition and support for the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians.

Satellite tribal offices were established in Salem, Portland, and Springfield to serve tribal members residing in neighboring counties. Ricks remained on the Tribal Council while working at the Springfield Area Office. In 1980, Ricks returned to Washington, D.C. to support the Siletz Reservation Act. A formal transfer ceremony was convened on September 20, 1980 on Government Hill. In 1991, Pauline Ricks was nominated for Vice-Chairperson of the Oregon Indian Council on Aging.