About Us
President
Andrea Cota is the daughter of Patricia Riley and Granddaughter of Rev. Durwood Riley who served 20 years in the Air Force. She is the current President of Don't Be A Sap... and is dedicated to continuing Patricia Riley's dream of creating equality for all ASL users and anyone who may be seen as a little different.
Growing up as a CODA (Child of a Deaf Adult) and having Dyslexia she was exposed to the beautiful language ASL and the crazy yet amazing Deaf world as well as the world of differences. She has seen how people treat both Deaf, hard of hearing and hearing individuals and believes that this world has the ability to accept and understand ASL but they need a little teaching. She is dedicated to teaching the hearing world about the beauty and acceptance of the Deaf and ASL world.
She is currently completing her B.A at UC Davis in Art History and Psychology and hopes to continue her education in Law.
Our Promise
Here at Don't Be A Sap... We have been doing so much with so little for so long that now we can do the Impossible with nothing at all. We Promise to continue to make the impossible happen, and expose this world to the amazing life of Sign Language and help underprivileged families who only have Love and Hope keeping them afloat. Making everyones life a little better. We offer assistance to anyone with any type of hearing loss, cognitive impairment or difference, whether born different or something in life happened (i.e serving in the military, a sickness or an accident). We promise 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.
Our Team
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, combining her academic expertise with compassionate, hands-on experience.
A leader and published author, Andrea 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), she 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 a reflection of her own mission to promote inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment for children and families.
JJ Nieves
Teresa Campbell
Andrea Cota
At Don't Be a Sap..., we offer a diverse selection of novelties that cater to all ages and interests. From funny gag gifts to nostalgic toys, we have something for everyone!
Maggie Wellman
Teresa Campbell
Teresa Campbell
Maggie Wellman, MBA, brings a strong 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 works on project managemen
Maggie Wellman, MBA, brings a strong 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 works on project management and fundraising for special initiatives, helping to expand programs that bridge the gap between Deaf, ASL, and hearing communities. She works closely with the team to design and coordinate projects that strengthen the organization’s capacity to serve children and families.
With experience in event planning, grant organization, and partnership building, Maggie thrives 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's is our number one supporter! She is a NP in California and amazing mother and grandmother! She has a strong knowledge of mental and physicals health and disabilities! She is truly an amazing woman