Paula Rich stamped an impression in Fanshawe women's basketball that helped mould the future. During the three seasons Paula played, she earned three OCAA provincial medals including back-to-back gold medals and a silver medal.

During her amazing run, Paula became the first female to be named an all-Canadian athlete in back-to-back years. Not only did she win the all-Canadian award twice, but she became just the second female to be named female athlete of the year in back-to-back years at Fanshawe College. Outstanding in every season, Paula won many tournament honours including being ranked in the Top 10 in OCAA women's basketball all-time scoring.

Paula also excelled in the classroom earning an academic all-Canadian award as well as the top academic award at Fanshawe in 1995. Her involvement in both athletics and her acceleration in academics were appreciated when she was honoured with the Les Zoltai Award presented to a Fanshawe student actively involved with student life who has also made significant contributions as an athlete and in Student Union activities.