About Us
President
Andrea Cota is the daughter of Patricia Riley and the granddaughter of Rev. Durwood Riley, who dedicated 20 years to the Air Force. She serves as the current President of Don't Be A Sap... passionately advocating for Deaf individuals and committed to fulfilling Patricia Riley's vision of achieving equality for all ASL users and anyone perceived as different.
As a CODA (Child of a Deaf Adult) with Dyslexia, Andrea has embraced the beautiful language of ASL and the vibrant, diverse Deaf world. She recognizes the challenges faced by both Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, as well as those who hear, and believes that society can cultivate greater acceptance and understanding of ASL through effective education. Her mission centers around advocacy for Deaf rights and promoting ASL education, aiming to bridge the gap between the hearing world and Deaf culture.
She has her degrees in Art History and Psychology from UC Davis. She is currently in her internship for her graduate degree at Troy University in clinical mental health counseling.
Our Promise
Here at Don't Be A Sap, we have been achieving so much with so little for so long that now we can do the impossible with nothing at all. We promise to continue making the impossible happen by advocating for Deaf individuals and exposing the world to the incredible life of ASL education. Our mission includes helping underprivileged families who rely solely on Love and Hope to stay afloat, ultimately making everyone's life a little better. We offer support for hearing loss to anyone experiencing any type of hearing impairment, cognitive differences, or challenges due to life circumstances (such as serving in the military, illness, or accidents). Our commitment is to bridge the gap between the ASL communities and the Hearing communities, doing everything in our power to bring acceptance and equality to Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Autistic, Mute, Blind, and beautifully gifted individuals.
ASL Education and Advocacy: About Us
Andrea Cota
Teresa Campbell
Andrea Cota
Andrea Cota holds dual degrees in Psychology and Art History from UC Davis and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Troy University. She is a practicing school counselor and a former ESE teacher and RBT. Through her work, Andrea has supported children with mental health challenges and developmental di
Andrea Cota holds dual degrees in Psychology and Art History from UC Davis and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Troy University. She is a practicing school counselor and a former ESE teacher and RBT. Through her work, Andrea has supported children with mental health challenges and developmental disabilities, incorporating her academic expertise with compassionate, hands-on experience. As a strong advocate for Deaf children's rights and an enthusiast for ASL education, Andrea combines her passion for mental health with support for hearing loss, ensuring that all students receive the assistance they need. A leader and published author, she is deeply committed to advancing mental health awareness and services. As a CODA and the daughter of the founder of Don’t Be a Sap, It’s a Booby Trap (DBAS), Andrea carries forward a personal and professional passion for helping children with disabilities across diverse communities. Her involvement in DBAS is not only an extension of her family legacy but also reflects her mission to promote inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment for children and families.
JJ Nieves
Teresa Campbell
Andrea Cota
At Don't Be a Sap..., we proudly support advocacy for Deaf individuals by offering a diverse selection of novelties that cater to all ages and interests. From funny gag gifts to nostalgic toys, we have something for everyone, all while promoting ASL education and raising awareness for hearing loss.
Maggie Wellman
Teresa Campbell
Teresa Campbell
Maggie Wellman, MBA, brings a robust background in sustainability, nonprofit development, and organizational strategy to her work with DBAS. With a degree in Environmental Economics and an MBA from the University of Colorado, she combines analytical skills with a passion for mission-driven impact. At DBAS, Maggie focuses on project manage
Maggie Wellman, MBA, brings a robust background in sustainability, nonprofit development, and organizational strategy to her work with DBAS. With a degree in Environmental Economics and an MBA from the University of Colorado, she combines analytical skills with a passion for mission-driven impact. At DBAS, Maggie focuses on project management and fundraising for special initiatives that advocate for Deaf communities and enhance ASL education, helping to bridge the gap between Deaf, ASL, and hearing communities. She collaborates closely with the team to design and coordinate projects that strengthen the organization’s capacity to support for hearing loss among children and families. With her experience in event planning, grant organization, and partnership building, Maggie excels at turning big ideas into actionable, well-managed projects. Her goal is to ensure that DBAS continues to grow its reach and empower communities through creativity, connection, and sustainable support.
Teresa Campbell
Teresa Campbell
Teresa Campbell
Teresa is our number one supporter! As a NP in California and an amazing mother and grandmother, she actively champions advocacy for Deaf individuals. With her strong knowledge of mental and physical health, disabilities, and ASL education, she is a vital resource for support for hearing loss. Truly, she is an amazing woman.