Generations of Generosity
The Wilson Family Nurtures Hope and Education
For Tom and Paula Wilson, named MiraCosta College’s 2024 Fall Philanthropists of the Year, supporting future youth at the college is more than just generosity—it’s part of a multigenerational commitment to giving back and creating meaningful connections through philanthropy.
The Wilson family’s dedication to MiraCosta College began with Tom’s father, Bob Wilson, who grew up in Escondido and supported the college for years. Having experienced poverty in his early life, Bob found success as a partner in Dickerson-Wilson Development Company, a Los Angeles-based developer. His journey instilled a deep gratitude and a desire to help others, a value he passed on to his family.
When Bob Wilson passed away two years ago, Tom, Paula, their four children, and extended family honored his life by continuing the Wilson Family’s tradition of support for MiraCosta College. Tom’s mother, Marion, who passed away just months earlier, also shared the family commitment to philanthropy.
“We’re continuing their legacy in multiple areas with our annual ‘our day,’” Tom Wilson said. “It’s not just writing checks—it’s also giving time, supporting events, and being visible.”
Supporting students through MiraCosta’s RAISE program (Resources and Assistance for Immigrant Students through Education), the Wilsons’ ‘our day’ is inspiring others to give as well. Their activity is especially important for vulnerable youth—like housing-insecure students, veterans, and foster youth—who rely on financial aid and food assistance or former foster youth working toward a college education.
“It gives former foster youth a place at the college to continue their education,” Paula said. “When challenges arise, there’s always someone there to offer support and help them stay on track toward their educational goals.”
The Wilson family’s education support reflects their belief in transformative power. “Education is powerful,” Paula Wilson shared. “You don’t have to come from self-sufficiency to move forward. Given the variables involved, you can be recognized in your destiny.”
The Wilson Family Foundation is a true family endeavor—created by Tom, Paula and Wilson’s stepkids: Tom’s brothers, Dennis, David, his wife, MaryAnn, Greg and his wife, Nancy, and (and his wife, Bridgid), Bob and his wife, Tandy. Together, they continue the tradition of giving back that Bob Wilson once began, using education and philanthropy to make a difference in their own community and beyond.
Tom Wilson attributes this enduring legacy of generosity to values his parents instilled early. “We were taught to give back,” he said. “And we’re encouraging others to be involved, too. You don’t have to wait—you can start now.”
The Wilson family’s story is a testament to the importance of connection linking generations—the bonds that run through their philanthropy efforts. By building on the family’s legacy, they are empowering future changemakers at MiraCosta College who will continue to make an impact for years to come.